The Importance of Fusion Bond Pipe
Pipe and piping is an essential component for many businesses, especially the OCTG industry. Carbon steel pipe is commonly used in a wide range of applications and because steel is subject to oxidation and corrosion, the steel must be protected. One of the most popular and cost effective ways to protect piping, involves fusion bond pipe coatings. This process provides a number of benefits and can serve many different uses.
What is Fusion Bond Pipe?
Fusion bonding is also known as fusion bond epoxy coating (FBE) and it is a special kind of powder coating which utilizes epoxy based resins and hardening agents. These resins have thermosetting properties and when heat is applied they are bonded electro statically to steel pipe. This is far more effective than simply dipping pipe in a coating solution.
History
Fusion bonding applications are nothing new. In fact, this method has been around for more than 50 years. However, it has evolved considerably since the 1960s and today it can be applied in multi-layers and can have a number of different properties to suit the application and environment. In addition, both internal and external surfaces may be coated.
Proper Preparation is the Key
Steel pipe must be properly prepared in order to make the FBE adhere to the pipe. Steel can contain a number of contaminants which are not visible to the naked eye. Hydrocarbons and ionic salts must be completely removed. Otherwise, the coating may fail in the field.
Environmental Conditions
Before applying FBE coatings, the environmental conditions of the pipe must be taken into consideration. For example, extreme temperatures may break down standard coating methods and low or high temperature FBE coatings must be used.
Uses for Fusion Bonded Pipe
You will find FBE coated pipe in many applications today. Here are just a few:
- Oil Pipelines
- Natural gas industry
- Refineries
- Sewage treatment facilities
- Water treatment applications
- Electric power plants
- Food handling industry
Common Causes for Coating Failure
Although fusion bond pipe is one of the most effective and durable coatings you can use, it can fail under certain conditions. However, most cases of failure are due to improper preparation of the pipe before coating application. This is why it is essential to choose a supplier with many years of experience and a company who is a leader in their field, like Kelly Pipe. We have been serving customers since 1898, and today we supply an international market with both standard and line pipe products designed for a huge number of commercial applications.
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