When it comes to transporting liquids, gases, and other substances, industrial pipelines play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and focused movement of materials. For pipeline maintenance tasks, such as hot tapping a gas line, the pipeline materials matter a great deal. If you’d like to know about the various materials used to make pipelines, this brief guide on what industrial pipelines are usually made of is here to help.
Steels and Their Alloys
One of the most common materials used for industrial pipelines is steel, thanks to its availability, strength, and cost-effectiveness. Specifically, carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy steel are frequently used in the construction of pipelines. Here are the subcategories of steel pipes.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is a popular choice because it offers excellent strength and lasting durability. It’s widely used in water supply and oil and gas transportation industries. Carbon steel pipelines often have an anti-corrosion coating or lining, such as cement mortar, epoxy, or polyethylene, to increase their corrosion resistance and ensure a longer life span.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another common choice for industrial pipelines due to its corrosion-resistant properties. Its chromium content makes it resistant to rust, making it a preferred choice when transporting corrosive or oxidizing materials, such as chemicals.
Alloy Steel
Alloy steel pipelines are specifically formulated to perform under high temperatures and pressures. Industries such as power plants, chemical plants, and oil refineries take advantage of these characteristics to safely transport their products.
Nonmetallic Options
In some situations, nonmetallic materials are used to construct industrial pipelines. The choice generally depends on a variety of factors, including the material being transported, the environmental conditions, and specific project needs.
Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP)
Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) pipelines offer lightweight corrosion resistance, and low thermal conductivity. These properties make FRP an appealing option for water, wastewater, and chemical transportation applications. Additionally, FRP pipelines require less maintenance and have a long service life.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is another frequently used nonmetallic material for industrial pipelines. HDPE is known for its flexibility and resistance to chemicals and corrosion. It’s often employed in water and sewer systems, as well as in the distribution of gaseous substances.
Composite Materials
Composite pipelines, made of a combination of materials, offer unique advantages over their single-material counterparts. These pipelines can be custom designed for optimal performance, corrosion resistance, and strength, making them an attractive choice for specialized industries.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Next Pipeline
If your old pipeline is in need of substantial repairs or expansion, it’s a good idea to consider each of these options. As you can see, determining the best materials for your industrial pipeline depends on a variety of factors. The properties and advantages of each material must be carefully considered in order to make the most informed decision, so make sure you thoroughly study each of these materials that most industrial pipelines are made of.
