Sherwin-Williams boosts pipeline weld coating efficiency with LAT powder coatings

Coating pipeline girth welds in cold conditions presents significant challenges. Traditional methods, both liquid and powdered fusion-bonded epoxies (FBEs), require preheating, which is energy-intensive and inefficient.

Powdered FBEs, however, cure faster and offer better adhesion and consistency, especially when applied using automated methods. Keymay Industries, facing inefficiencies with conventional FBEs in extreme cold, collaborated with Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine to develop a low-application temperature (LAT) FBE, Pipeclad® 2000 LAT. This new formulation requires 85°F (29.4°C) less heat, reducing energy costs and emissions. Since its adoption, Keymay has coated over 50,000 girth welds with a repair rate of less than 1%. The automated application process for LAT FBEs enhances consistency and reduces human error.

The lower heat requirement mitigates issues like coating damage, moisture challenges, and heat retention. LAT FBEs also offer environmental benefits, producing less waste and reducing diesel fuel consumption. Keymay successfully implemented LAT FBEs in major projects, achieving significant cost savings and improved performance. The innovation has revolutionised the girth weld coating process, providing a more efficient and sustainable solution.

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