How to Avoid Corrosion on Flanges?

Corrosion is a potentially dangerous and expensive problem. It’s one of the most common ones we have seen in our everyday activities. In flanges, there are two types of corrosion: crevice and pitting. Pitting Corrosion occurs on the flange’s face and is frequently seen in groups or clusters. Small pits or cavities form on the material’s surface as a result of this form of corrosion. Proper alloy selection is the key to avoiding pitting corrosion. Crevices at an alarmingly high rate Corrosion happens when a concentrated substance builds up within two adjacent flanges. It is a type of corrosion that can be highly detrimental since it is difficult to inspect the areas where it occurs. Crevice corrosion is a common damage mechanism that occurs when corrosive substances are concentrated in a small area.

When flanges are used in highly corrosive environments, crevice corrosion is perhaps most common on the flange face. Corrosion that begins in the gap on the inside diameter of a flange can spread rapidly to the gasket area. One of the most difficult tasks in any corrosion-resistant plan has been protecting a pipe flange from corrosion. Corrosion protection for flanges is not quick and easy. It can be hard to find the right coating for each application. Assembling the needful evidence before making a decision can assist in identifying the product that will provide the best long-term performance and ease of use.

The most common approach to preventing corrosion is to use maintenance paints. Epoxy or urethane-based maintenance paints are common. The majority of maintenance paints will form a hard coating on the substrate. When applying maintenance paints, the amount applied must be perfect; if the paint is too slender, the area will be ineffective, and if the paint is too creamy, the fastenings will seize. You might not have been able to coat the large surface because there are so many different angles and flange shapes. Another layer of coating may be required after the flange has already been inspected. Maintenance paints have had the advantage of not requiring hot work or specialized equipment.

Rigid coverings or clamps encapsulated to the flange or the void between the flanges are by far the most common mechanical solutions. These covers and clamps have a rubber seal and are made of stainless steel or plastic. The use of tapes or semi-solid tapes is another option. For wrapping, tapes can be made of petrolatum, wax, or visco-elastic polymers embedded in the fabric. Semi-solid polymers are used specifically for their water repellent properties.

All precautionary methods have advantages and disadvantages. Although there is no way to completely prevent corrosion, regular maintenance and inspections can help to prevent rapid corrosion.

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