When an offshore structure fails, there are typically several reasons why. Corrosion is usually the main offender causing these platforms to fail--costing an estimated $1.372 billion per year.
The deeper an offshore exploration goes, the greater the risk of corrosion. Because of this, it is essential that your equipment is protected. Otherwise, you may be contributing significantly to that $1.372 billion.
Why exactly does this cost so much?
Well, for one, corrosion can account for roughly 60% of all offshore maintenance costs, which can be up to 20 times more expensive than work at a yard. Another reason is that every second, 5 metric tons of steel disintegrate, and 40% of all steel that’s produced is used to replace this. The majority of the world’s offshore fleet has passed its average lifespan of 20 years, and 6,000 of these platforms are stationary and therefore unable to be moved.
Coating failure is another reason why this is so pricey. Splash zones are the parts of the platform that alternate in and out of the water due to the forces of nature. Without a protective coating, things like salinity, velocity, chemistry, and oxygen make these areas more susceptible to corrosion. Thankfully, SplashTRON® can help. SplashTRON® is an elastomer that’s bonded on and offers metal protection against the splash zone--permanently. It protects against wave action, marine life, corrosion, oxygen, weathering, moisture, and most oils.
Corrosion prevention
Not only will protecting against corrosion save you a ton of time and money, but it will also reduce the need for unplanned maintenance, increase plant availability, and help you comply with safety, health, and environmental policies.
Since the forces of nature cannot be controlled, your best bet against corrosion is to invest in a protective coating like SplashTRON® to prolong the life of your structure and keep maintenance costs under wraps. To improve performance, lengthen the lifespan of your platform, and decrease the risk of corrosion, it’s best to implement this coat during the product finishing stage.
SplashTRON® is applied at Mark Tool’s Franklin, LA plant as well as in California and Japan, and can be used for virtually any size pipe. Start your corrosion prevention today! Contact Mark Tool to request a SplashTRON® quote.