In industrial and commercial applications, rubber linings are the ideal solution to protect against corrosion, material contamination, fire and explosions. Rubber lined steel pipe is extremely durable and suitable for even the most abrasive slurries and is widely used in the mining industry. In this article, we will give a brief introduction to rubber-lined steel pipes.
What Is A Rubber Lining?
Rubber lining is the process of applying rubber sheets or extruded tubing to the interior surface of steel pipes. Rubber-lined steel pipes have long been considered a highly effective solution for pipes carrying fluid streams containing abrasive solids or corrosive chemicals.
Depending on the purpose of the equipment, the rubber lining needs to withstand extreme temperatures. Metals used to hold liquids are susceptible to corrosion. When rubber is applied to the inside of steel pipes that hold fluids, it increases resistance to natural corrosion processes.
However, rubber lining is not necessarily a one-size-fits-all solution. It is important to understand the chemistry of any liquid being piped through to avoid any reaction with the rubber's chemical components.
What Kind Of Rubber Is Used For Lining Steel Pipes?
There are many types of rubber compounds used to line steel pipe, each with varying levels of resistance to chemical penetration. Rubber is an insulator that forms a barrier between metal surfaces and harsh environmental conditions.
This is even more important when dealing with corrosive chemicals such as those used in mining, chemical plants, power plants or steel mills. Factors such as temperature, chemical composition and material concentration need to be considered when selecting a rubber lining that is right for your application, extending equipment life and maximizing operating efficiency.
Natural rubber lining is suitable for most inorganic chemicals except strong oxidizers. It is also resistant to most alcohols, esters and hydrochloric acid.
Most steel pipes benefit from the use of natural rubber linings, but there are also synthetic rubber compounds, such as neoprene, that can be used for pipes in sour plants or areas that require greater resistance to oils, acids, and abrasives.
The selection of materials is determined based on usage conditions such as pressure, temperature, medium, and design and manufacturing methods.
How Is Rubber Lining Applied?
Rubber liners are available for a variety of different types of equipment. For immovable objects, work can be applied to machinery, parts or equipment on site, but there are some restrictions on the type of project.
Autoclave machines can reduce the cost of rubber lining projects, providing a versatile and efficient solution for individual parts. Before inserting the liner, the steel pipe also needs to be inspected for any defects that could cause the rubber liner to bubble or allow air to interfere with the curing process.
Successful application of rubber lining requires skill and accuracy. Our team of experts can assess your individual needs and find a solution that suits your needs.
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