Numerous industries use pipes for fluid transfer, such as potable water supplies, HVAC systems, petrochemical refineries, pipelines, and irrigation. These pipes are typically safeguarded by various types of steel pipe coatings to reduce wear and tear and prevent damage, such as corrosion.
Pipe coatings are used to prevent direct contact between pipes and the fluids they transport. There are several types of pipe coatings, including galvanized, polyethylene, fusion bonded epoxy, and concrete coatings. Each type has its own advantages and limitations that can affect plumbing quality and functionality.
This passage will describe the features and applications of these different types of steel pipe coatings.
Galvanizing
Galvanizing is a popular method for coating steel pipes. The two most common types of galvanizing are hot dip and pre-galvanizing. The metallurgical reaction between the steel pipe alloy and the zinc creates a finish on the metal surface, providing the pipe with excellent corrosion resistance properties. Galvanizing is cost-effective due to its simple process that requires minimal secondary operations and post-processing. This has made it the preferred choice for many manufacturers and industries.
Two Layer/ Three Layer Polyethylene Coating (2LPE/3LPE Coating)
Polyethylene coating is commonly used in harsh environments, such as oil and gas, petrochemical plants, and water transportation, to increase a pipe’s resistance to shear, corrosion, impact, and cathodic disbondment.
Fusion Bonded Epoxy Coating (FBE Coating)
It is used to protect against corrosion and harmful chemicals. Fusion bonded epoxy coating is a thin layer of epoxy-resin powder material that is applied to steel pipes using electrostatic spraying.
FBE coating is a standard in many industries for pipeline projects with normal requirements and non-harsh conditions.
Concrete Coating
Concrete weight coatings are commonly used in the construction of marine pipelines, particularly for the transportation of marine crude oil. The buoyancy of the steel pipe limits its diving depth, which is inadequate for practical use. Adding a concrete layer to the outer surface of the steel pipe significantly increases its weight, thereby addressing the issue of insufficient depth. Coatings can also protect the outer surface of the steel pipe.
Each type of coating has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of performance and application. Therefore, it is important to choose the most suitable coating for the required service environment.
Post time: Jan-09-2024