Pipelines installed in areas near the coasts are often subject to corrosion due to the high concentration of chloride ions [Cl-], typical of the surrounding marine environment.

What are the problems that corrosion can trigger when the weld seams of the pipe support saddles are damaged?

One of the critical issues arises from the risk that the saddle-pipe joint system is compromised with possible technical and environmental consequences.

 

We explain why this can happen

Pipes undergo deformations due to thermal expansion. In the specific case in which the pipe and the support saddle are welded together, there is no risk that these deformations are uncontrollable. As a result of corrosion (as seen in the photos), the welding used to block the support saddle to the line is jeopardized; this could cause atypical deformations in the most critical points, triggering the appearance of cracks and breaks in the pipe wall.

Today it is of the utmost importance to keep an industrial plant safe, not only to ensure the continuity of its functionality but, above all, to contribute to the protection of personnel and the environment. We all plant operators, on the front line, have an obligation to collaborate with each other to ensure that industrial areas are always safe; continuous training, in knowing how to assess alert conditions in advance, helps to redistribute this commitment.

In this specific case:

  1. Problem: crevice corrosion near the support/pipe joint welds.
  2. Solution: sealing, by applying composite materials, closing all perimeter spaces to prevent water from entering between the support and the pipe.

 

In the various photos in the gallery, in addition to cleaning the surface from layers of rust and securing the perimeter of the weld with hydraulic binder compound, a balanced laminate in composite material is laid, on which the Shore D hardness test is carried out (according to ASTM D 2583) to verify its correct application.

 

CASE STUDY: Sealing supports piping c.s. φ 14” dock – fluid: petrol

The entire anchoring and support system is completely restored upstream of a predictive and preventive maintenance program.

 

For more information on our SRS service, please refer to the dedicated page:

 

SRS – Steel Recovery system