Piping recovery by composite materials

COMPOSITE MATERIALS FEATURES
The composite materials are made of fibers of various origins (glass, carbon, boron) incorporated in a resin matrix (polyester, vinyl, epoxy, phenolic) which has no mechanical strength but ensures the cohesion between fibers of the same layer and between adjacent layers. The fibers of organic, mineral or metallic origin constitute the reinforcement of the composite material, to which they confer mechanical strength, stiffness, and lightness, and of which determine resistance to abrasion and to chemical agents, electrical and chemical properties. The matrices are those homogeneous substances that, associated with the fibers, allow the composite material to react to stresses and constitute needed protection for the fibers.

Coating of sub-thickness pipes with composite materials.
On pressure pipes that have suffered a reduction in thickness due to corrosive and/or erosive phenomena during operation, repair with composite materials can sometimes be advantageous. In particular, using epoxy resins and carbon fibers represents a light, resistant and lasting solution.
This temporary repair method is according to ISO/TS24817 Standard Quality System. Quick and reliable, these interventions require minimum space for installation and are particularly suitable for installation and suitable for lines with complex geometry.

STANDARD INTERVENTION PROCEDURE

Standard intervention procedure involves the following phases:

1. surface cleaning by sandblasting and degreasing by solvents;
2. application of an adhesive film for seizing to the metal substrate;
3. application of a layer of glass fibers for galvanic isolation, impregnated with epoxy resin;
4. application of bi-directional layers of carbon fiber impregnated with epoxy resin;
5. adhesive and resin polymerization cycle with an appropriate thermal cycle;
6. visual inspection of the laminate;
7. application of a protective coating to improve resistance to atmospheric agents and UV rays.