In the constantly evolving pipeline industry, United Pipeline Systems stands as a global leader in providing advanced polymer lining solutions. With over 40 years of experience, United Pipeline’s expertise extends across the oil and gas, mining, industrial, and public utility sectors, delivering cutting-edge technology to extend the life of vital infrastructures.
Among their innovative solutions is rotational lining—a process that enhances pipeline performance, providing unmatched protection against corrosion, abrasion, and chemical damage. This blog explores the process and benefits of rotational lining, demonstrating how it improves pipeline efficiency and ensures longevity.
What is Rotational Lining?
Rotational lining, also known as rotolining, is a specialized process used to coat the interior of metallic structures–regardless of shape and complexity–with a seamless polymer layer. This internal lining is crucial for protecting pipelines from the wear and tear caused by harsh chemicals, corrosive materials, and physical abrasion over time.
The Rotational Lining Process:
- Preparation: The vessel’s surface is cleaned and sandblasted to achieve a white metal finish. This ensures the polymer adheres effectively to the metal during the lining process.
- Mounting and Sealing: The vessel is mounted onto a multi-axis rotational machine, and granular thermoplastic resin is placed inside. All openings are sealed to prevent leakage during the lining process.
- Oven Phase: The structure is simultaneously heated and rotated about two axes inside an oven. As the vessel rotates, the resin melts and flows evenly across the entire interior, bonding seamlessly to the metal substrate.
- Cooling: After the resin forms a uniform layer, the vessel undergoes a cooling process. This solidifies the polymer into a stress-free lining that adheres tightly to the metal, providing long-term protection against corrosion and chemical damage.
Once the process is complete, the resulting lining is a monolithic, corrosion- and chemical-resistant layer that can adapt to complex shapes and prevent potential weak points. Typical wall thicknesses range from 0.250 inches to 0.400 inches, though thicknesses as small as 0.090 inches or as large as 0.450 inches are possible, depending on the structure’s requirements. Standard raised face weld neck (RFWN) flanges, or United’s proprietary welded connections, can also be integrated, allowing for installation in either mechanical or fully welded systems.
Key Benefits of Rotational Lining
Rotational lining offers multiple advantages over conventional methods of pipeline protection, making it a cost-effective and durable solution for infrastructure across multiple industries.
- Enhanced Corrosion Protection: A seamless polymer barrier ensures long-term protection from corrosion, extending the lifespan of pipelines.
- Abrasion Resistance: The tough polymer lining prevents erosion and micro-pitting, particularly in environments with high friction or abrasive materials.
- Chemical Compatibility: HDPE liners are highly resistant to aggressive chemicals, offering protection against degradation that other materials, such as alloys, may not withstand.
- Complex Shape Handling: The rotolining process is designed to handle even the most intricate shapes, ensuring that all surfaces are protected without compromising vessel integrity.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to alternatives like alloys or glass-lined options, rotational lining provides a more economical solution with lower maintenance and replacement costs.
- Maintenance-Free Systems: Once installed, the lined systems require minimal maintenance, reducing downtime and operational expenses.
Simplifying Small Pipeline Repairs
Rotational lining is not limited to large pipeline sections–it can also simplify repairs on smaller components. When small parts of a pipeline, such as bends, tees, or reducers, require repair or protection, United Pipeline can handle these elements in-house. These components can be sent directly to United Pipeline Systems, where they will be rotolined and returned, ready for reinstallation. The process integrates seamlessly with HDPE systems, allowing for minimal disruption to operations.
Pre-Rotolining Preparations
To ensure the success of the rotational lining process, careful steps must be taken in preparation. Vessels need to be free of any prior coatings, as the heating process can compromise existing layers. Additionally, flange edges must be machined smoothly to ensure proper adhesion and weld integrity.
United Pipeline’s advanced manufacturing capabilities accommodate a wide range of sizes. Standard vessels processed through rotolining can reach up to 6 feet in diameter and 20 feet in length, while custom orders can be accommodated up to 12 feet in diameter. This flexibility allows United Pipeline to protect a broad range of equipment, from manifolds and wellheads to tees and reducers.
Discover the Power of Rotolining with United Pipeline Systems
Rotational lining is a critical advancement in pipeline protection technology, offering unmatched benefits, including enhanced corrosion resistance, chemical compatibility, and the ability to coat even the most complex shapes. By choosing rotolining, companies can significantly reduce maintenance needs and extend the operational lifespan of their infrastructure—all while minimizing environmental impact.
As a trusted partner to industries worldwide, United Pipeline Systems provides innovative solutions that protect critical infrastructure across over 30 countries. Their ability to tackle complex challenges with custom solutions and cutting-edge technology positions them as the go-to provider for advanced polymer lining systems. Whether addressing corrosion, chemical damage, or environmental sustainability, United Pipeline’s global reach and expertise ensure they can deliver results wherever they are needed.For more information on how United Pipeline Systems’ rotational lining can improve your pipeline performance, reduce downtime, and ensure long-term protection, contact us today for a consultation.