Pipe Coating
Gilsonite in pipe coating
Gisonite Application
hydrocarbon resin that is mined from the Uinta Basin in Utah and other resources around the world.It has a wide range of industrial applications.
One of its key uses is in “pipe coating”,where it plays an important role in protecting pipelines from corrosion and other forms of damage.
Gilsonite, also known as asphaltum, is a black, solid, natural Pipelines are a critical component of the energy industry, used to transport oil, natural gas, and other types of fluids over long distances. Gilsonite is an ideal material for pipe coating because it is highly resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and other forms of damage. Let’s read the following article and explore gilsonite applications in pipe coatings and the benefits it has.
Gilsonite in pipe coatings offers many and countless benefits. It is highly adhesive, which means it can bond tightly to the surface of the pipe and provide a durable, long-lasting layer of protection. Additionally, gilsonite has a low viscosity, which makes it easy to apply evenly to the surface of the pipe.
One of the key benefits of using gilsonite in pipe coating is that it is a natural, environmentally friendly material. Unlike many synthetic materials that are used for pipe coatings, gilsonite is not toxic or harmful to the environment, and it can be safely disposed of without causing any long-term damage.
Some of the benefits of gilsonite application in pipe coating are listed here:
Gilsonite Applications in Pipe Coating
Gilsonite is a natural asphalt that is used in pipe coating applications to provide a protective barrier against corrosion and abrasion. It is also used to reduce friction and improve flow characteristics. Gilsonite is often used in combination with other coatings such as epoxy, polyurethane, and polyethylene to provide a more durable and long-lasting coating.
It must be noted that, in pipe coating applications, gilsonite is typically mixed with other materials to create a coating that is optimized for the specific conditions in which it will be used. For example, the coating may be designed to be highly resistant to saltwater corrosion if the pipeline is going to be used in marine environments. Alternatively, it may be formulated to provide additional insulation if the pipeline will be used to transport hot or cold fluids.
Some of gilsonite application in pipe coating include:
Abrasion Resistant Coatings
The addition of gilsonite to pipe coating formulations provides an extra layer of protection against abrasion damages inflicted on pipes during transportation and installation.
Corrosion Resistant Coatings
Gilsonite is used as an effective corrosion inhibitor in pipe coating. It helps to prevent rust and corrosion from damaging the pipeline, thereby improving its longevity and reducing maintenance costs.
Water Resistant Coatings
In addition to its corrosion and abrasion-resistant properties, gilsonite is also an effective water-resistant coating. This makes it an ideal material for pipes that will be exposed to moisture and other harsh environmental conditions.
Chemical Resistant Coatings
Gilsonite has high resistance to chemicals such as acids, saltwater, and hydrocarbons. This property is useful in providing extra protection against chemical exposure that can harm the pipeline.
UV Resistant Coatings
UV resistant coating is another gilsonite application in pipe coatings. Pipes exposed to direct sunlight can cause degradation of the coating over time. Gilsonite is a naturally occurring material that is highly resistant to UV radiation, making it an ideal choice for pipe coating
Types of Pipe Coating When Using Gilsonite
Some of the types of pipe coatings that can be applied using gilsonite include:
- Hot-applied coatings where the gilsonite is heated up and applied to the pipe surface using a spray or roller application.
- Cold-applied coatings where the gilsonite is mixed with a solvent and applied to the pipe surface using a brush or spray application.
- Epoxy/gilsonite coatings in which asphaltum is combined with epoxy to provide a strong, durable coating that can resist corrosion and chemical attack.
- Surface-treated coatings where gilsonite is used to provide surface treatment to the pipe before applying another coating, such as fusion-bonded epoxy.
Steps and Processes of
Pipe Coatings Using Gilsonite
There are several steps and processes involved in gilsonite application in pipe coating. These include:
Preparing the Surface
The first step in applying gilsonite to coat pipes is to prepare the surface by removing any dirt, rust, or old coating that may be present on the pipe. This can be done by sandblasting, wire brushing, or using a chemical cleaner.
Heating Gilsonite
Gilsonite is a natural, solid hydrocarbon that needs to be heated to become liquid for coating application. It is typically heated to a temperature of around 350-400°F.
Mixing Gilsonite with Solvent
Once gilsonite has been melted, it needs to be mixed with a solvent, such as xylene or toluene, to make it easier to apply to the pipes. The amount of solvent needed depends on the desired viscosity of the coating.
Applying Gilsonite
In this step of gilsonite application in pipe coating, the gilsonite mixture can be applied to the pipe using a spray gun, brush, or roller. It is important to apply the coating evenly to ensure adequate coverage and to avoid any missed spots.
Curing
Once the gilsonite coating has been applied to the pipe, it needs to be left to cure for several hours. Curing time can vary depending on the temperature and humidity levels.
Quality Assurance
After curing, the gilsonite-coated pipe is inspected for quality assurance. The coating should be smooth, free of bubbles or defects, and have a consistent thickness.
Final Testing
After the inspection, and in the final step of gilsonite application in pipe coating, the coated pipe undergoes final testing to ensure that it meets the specifications. This includes testing the coating for its resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and impact.
Gilsonite Coating in Different Industries
Gilsonite coatings can be used by various industries that require pipes with enhanced protection from extreme weather conditions, corrosion, and abrasion. Some of the industries that commonly use pipes coated by Gilsonite are:
- Oil and Gas Industry:
Gilsonite-coated pipes are commonly used in the oil and gas industry for pipelines, tanks, and other equipment.
Water and Wastewater Industry
Gilsonite application in pipe coating can be used to coat pipes used for carrying water and wastewater, protecting them from corrosion and other environmental damage. - Mining Industry
Gilsonite-coated pipes can enhance the durability of pipes used for transporting mining waste and chemicals.
Highway and Construction Industry
Gilsonite-coated pipes can also be used in the construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure that requires protection from weather and wear and tear. - Agriculture Industry:
Agriculture industry is another place where gilsonite-coated pipes can be used for irrigation and drainage systems.
Gilsonite Composition Used in Pipe Coating
Gilsonite application in pipe coating requires specific composition. The most common type of gilsonite composition used in pipe coating is a blend of gilsonite and asphalt. This blend is used to provide a protective coating for pipes that are exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
Gilsonite with a high softening point, low ash content, and high purity is used in the pipe coating industry. Typically, gilsonite with a softening point of above 150°C, ash content of less than 1%, and purity of over 99% is preferred for this application. These characteristics ensure that the gilsonite can provide excellent adhesive and protective properties to the coated pipe, resulting in a durable and long-lasting coating.
Types of Pipes Coated by Gilsonite
Gilsonite application in pipe coating is expanding because of this natural mineral’s unique properties. Gilsonite is commonly used to coat and strengthen pipes made of steel, iron, and concrete. The coating provides protection against corrosion, chemical damage, and wear and tear. The application of gilsonite is particularly popular in the oil and gas industry, where it is used to protect pipelines and other equipment from harsh environmental conditions. Gilsonite is also used in the coating of water and sewer pipes, as well as in the construction of roads and highway infrastructure.