Ways to Protect Industrial Piping
Whether your company uses oil and gas pipelines or water and chemical lines, protecting industrial piping from corrosion is a must. Corrosion in pipes can cause significant damage to the piping, and can result in costly repairs and downtime for your operation. By taking the right precautions, however, you can prevent corrosive corrosion and prolong the life of your pipework.
Aside from preventing the occurrence of corrosion, there are many ways you can protect your piping to keep it in good condition. These methods include linings and coatings, which are available for both above ground and underground piping. Coatings can protect the pipe from abrasion, moisture and heat. Epoxy coatings, for example, can prevent oxidation corrosion in high-strength welded steel products.
Piping must be carefully protected from vibrations, which can damage the surface and create dents. A protective cushioning material such as rubber or polyurethane can help with this. For details on Pipe protectors, take a look at the products available at meterbox.co.uk/pipe-protectors
Flange protectors are another common form of piping protection. These can be slipped on the flanges to prevent them from moving during shipping and handling. These can be especially useful for large bore piping components, as they can be shipped and stored for long periods of time without protection.
For buried pipelines, an abrasion-resistant overcoat can be applied to the bare metal at the factory. This will add excellent resistance to abrasion, and provide a layer of insulation against the soil. Depending on the composition of the soil, additional coatings may be needed for more complete protection.
Other piping protection methods include the use of protective liners and coatings, and the use of protective shims at critical points. It is also a good idea to check the pH levels of water in your piping, as low levels can contribute to corrosion. Finally, cleaning pipes regularly is a good way to prevent microbiologically induced corrosion, which occurs when corrosive bacteria settle in joints and crevices.
By following these simple tips, you can help protect your industrial piping and ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. Don’t wait until you have a problem to take action—protective linings and coatings can save you a lot of money, hassle and downtime in the future.
