4 Ways To Prevent Commercial Pipeline Corrosion
Throughout most of today’s modern industrial world, pipelines remain a hot topic and a fundamental component. Regardless of the industry and function of a pipeline, keeping them free of corrosion is a vital part of the job. Here we explore four ways to prevent commercial pipeline corrosion, whether it’s before or after implementing the system.
Molten Zinc Galvanization
Galvanization with molten zinc helps create a long-term solution with a durable alloy. The alloy acts as the barrier between harsh elements and the pipework.
Though it’s an old process that engineers have been trusting for over 250 years, it’s complex and requires a proper lead time before workers can lay any pipework. This wait time is the downside to zinc galvanization, so engineers must often find an in-ground solution before this pending corrosion begins presenting itself.
Barrier-Specific Coatings
The most cost-effective way to deter or prevent corrosive behaviors with a pipeline is with barrier-specific coatings. These are typically in the form of an externally applied coating such as paint, sprayed powder, or plastic adhesive.
Workers typically apply these coatings before implementing pipework or completing the pipeline system for the best results. It’s essential to note the thickness of each barrier coating will directly relate to its ability to withstand time and various harsh elements.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most common commercial pipeline corrosion prevention materials because it combines various elements into one, resulting in a durable pipe system. The combination of metals creates an incredibly strong and resistant exterior.
A typical combination is a corrosion-resistant nickel and oxidation-resistant chromium. It’s essential to understand that different alloys work in different situations, and the chemical exposure and environment lend a hand in which solutions are feasible.
Cathodic Electrochemical Protection
Pipelines experience different types of corrosion, and the kind of corrosion present may dictate the remediation process. Specifically, cathodic electrochemical protection can target actively corroded sites and convert them to passive sites with a galvanic anode.
The most common galvanic anodes are zinc, magnesium, and aluminum. Even though the cathodic measures are highly effective, they remain a complex and costly method because the anodes may require additional maintenance.
