Fusion bonded epoxy piling coating is designed for corrosion and surface protection of underground steel pipe, fabrications and reinforcing steel.
One of the reasons why it’s a premier coating option is its unique properties. It’s capable of operating in ranges from -100 degrees Fahrenheit up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit depending on which grade is being used, the soil type, moisture content, thickness, temperature and other conditions.
It is also a popular choice due to its sustainability. An environmentally-friendly alternative, epoxy coating, uses organic materials that have no biohazards or contaminants. For companies who prioritize green business practices, fusion bonded epoxy coating is an excellent choice.
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Advancements in Coating Technology Lead to Additional Applications
Fusion bonded epoxy coating has been one of the premier coatings of choice on pipelines for many years due to its durability, corrosion protection properties and ease of application. It was used starting in the mid-1970s on the girth weld area as a field joint coating, and since that time, millions of girth welds have been coated utilizing this product.
In the mid-1980s, fusion bonded epoxy piling coating was used to coat induction bends, flanges, valves and other fittings used in pipeline systems, allowing companies to have a high-quality corrosion protection coating from start to finish on their pipelines. Technological advances in the application techniques allow for a high production process at a low cost for battling corrosion on the weld areas of pipelines.
How Fusion Bonded Epoxy Piling Coating Is Applied
The protective fusion-bonded epoxy piling coating is applied by electrostatic spraying. Surface preparation techniques are usually performed by abrasive blast cleaning, grinding and chemical washing prior to the coating application.
The fusion bonded powder coating is cured before visible oxidation occurs. Then, it usually undergoes thickness measurements and bend testing in order to ensure it conforms to the requirements for film thickness, flexibility and continuity, impact resistance, chemical composition and corrosion resistance.
As a thermoset polymer coating, the fusion bonded epoxy coating falls under the category of ‘protective coatings’ in paints and coating nomenclature. The name ‘fusion-bond epoxy’ is due to resin cross-linking and the application method, which is different from a conventional paint.
Unique Properties of Fusion Bonded Epoxy Piling Coating
The resin and hardener components in the dry powder fusion bonded epoxy piling coating stock remain unreactive at normal storage conditions. At typical coating application temperatures, the contents of the powder melt and transform into a liquid form.
The liquid fusion bonded epoxy piling coating film wets and flows onto the steel surface on which it is applied, and it soon becomes a solid coating by chemical cross-linking, assisted by heat. This process is known as “fusion bonded.” The chemical cross-linking reaction taking place, in this case, is irreversible. Once the curing takes place, the coating cannot be returned to its original form. The application of further heating will not “melt” the coating, and thus it is known as a “thermoset” coating.
Fusion Bonded Epoxy Coating Application Method
Regardless of the shape and type of steel surface to be coated, the fusion bonded epoxy piling coating application has three essential stages:
- Thoroughly cleaning the steel surface
- Cleaned metal is heated to the recommended application temperature
- The actual application and curing stage
The advantage of coating pipe and rebar is that their round shape allows for the continuous linear application of the fusion bonded epoxy piling coating over the exterior surface, while the parts are moved in a conveyor, ensuring high throughput. On fittings and other irregular-shaped areas, the coating is applied by manual spray guns. Another method of application is known as the “fluid-dip” process, in which the heated components are dipped in a fluidized powder bed.
Wide Range of Uses
For nearly 50 years, fusion bond epoxy coating has been used for a wide variety of corrosion applications. While not recommended as a protective coating in a sewer application, fusion bonded epoxy affords excellent protection in various water and salt-water applications. It has certification for use in potable water and FDA certification for use in food handling applications.
Contact Lane Coatings for Your Surface Protection Needs
Since 1979, we have been the piling coating experts in Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well as the greater northeast region. We offer many powder coating services, and fusion bonded epoxy coating was our initial focus. We are the trusted name in protective coating for metal products.
To learn more about our services, request more information by filling out this form on our website. We are happy to help with your fusion bonded epoxy coating needs. Request a free quote today.
