Coating/Lining Systems

Pipelines and other structures routinely are coated with interior lining systems.  This generally applies to cement mortar lining of pipe, interior lining of water storage and other tanks as well as other water handling vessels.  The coating system isolates the structure substrate from the corrosive electrolyte. 

As related to pipelines, cement mortar lining is routinely utilized to control internal corrosion.  Buried piping is typically cleaned and lined with cement, with other materials now available.  This approach extends the service life of the pipeline by minimizing leaks due to internal corrosion activity.  Internal lining would not mitigate external corrosion activity, which would progress until the water pressure breaks the lining. 

Pipelines and other structures are routinely coated with interior lining systems.  This generally applies to epoxy or cement mortar lining of pipe, interior lining of water storage and other tanks as well as other infrastructure.  The coating system isolates the structure substrate from the corrosive environment. 

Much of the existing infrastructure, both of steel and reinforced concrete construction, can be internally lined or externally coated to prevent deterioration.  Linings can be used to control corrosion of the structure as well as provide structural integrity where leaks are existing.  Spray on epoxy is a proven system for these applications in the water/wastewater power generation and other industries.  Properly selected and applied high performance epoxy can protect H₂S headspace corrosion on wastewater treatment facilities and related structures. 

Pipe linings in concert with cathodic protection provide an economic solution to both internal and external corrosion.  Steel tanks provided with lining and cathodic protection are commonly upgrade and built to ensure long service lives.

SUMMARY

Evaluation and definition of the corrosion exposure on existing infrastructure is a very cost effective means for prioritizing repair, rehabilitation and replacement of water structures.  Defining the corrosivity of the environment and implementing corrosion control during the design process for new infrastructure is prudent in ensuring long term service life. 

Corrosion control is essential to the efficient long term performance of capitalized infrastructure in the water utility industry.  Once a corrosion control program is undertaken, the economic benefits become apparent.  Elimination of many pipeline failures and corrosion related equipment failures reduce maintenance costs, and ensures clean water delivery to the customer.  Basic survey techniques and methods to identify and mitigate the corrosion processes in the water utility industry have been presented in this paper.  Following a comprehensive corrosion control program allows water system operators to be proactive in  management of the system rather than managing corrosion failures and associated problems. 

PAGE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9