Chemical installations have very specific needs that standard pipes can’t typically fill. Due to the caustic nature of many substances, pipes have a much greater chance of degrading, corroding, and leaking in these facilities. Piping planners working on these plants have a greater variety of concerns. Pipe manufacturers have worked toward meeting this need through three main piping variations.
Standard Pipes
Standard, unlined, pipes are typically the first option that many piping designers will consider. Unlined pipes typically have the advantages of lower cost, greater material variety, and easier installation. Because unlined pipes are standard, they are also much easier to maintain, and there is much greater variation in the materials available. Typically, finding technicians to repair and install unlined pipe will be much more straightforward. The main downside to standard piping is its lack of chemical resistance.
Lined Pipes
Lined pipe, particularly rubber lined pipes, has the advantage of being chemically resistant while mediating the cost between standard and clad pipes. Lined pipe lowers corrosion and abrasion risks. A lined pipe is not usually appropriate for high-temperature or high-pressure environments, as the rubber lining is more susceptible to heat and pressure than unlined metal, glass, carbon fiber, or plastic pipes.
Clad Pipes
Clad pipes are more expensive than either lined or standard piping. That being said, clad pipes have the advantage of being appropriate for high-pressure, high-heat, and highly corrosive environments. The unique cladding process binds corrosion resistant material with an exceptionally strong pipe, typically carbon steel. This process is effective but costly. Installation also requires specially trained technicians.
Pick Your Pipes
Pipelines run your chemical installation. Without the proper piping materials, your installation may have increased downtimes and risk of property damages. Taking the time and investing the resources to have the proper pipes for your installation is exceptionally important so your plant can run with minimal risk and maximum uptime.
