Marine structures, like offshore platforms, pipes, and decks, are constantly exposed to the abrasive and corrosive elements of the ocean. This can cause serious damage over time if the proper protection is not applied.
Not all surface coatings are built to withstand such environments, which is why you'll want to conduct extensive research before pulling the trigger on this investment.
Coating durability will depend on how and where it's applied, along with how well it resists wear and tear. Flexible coatings are one of the best coatings on the market because they're able to resist harsh chemical attacks. They're engineered to offer the flexibility, durability, and impermeability needed to resist the endless threats that marine structures face.
The many uses of flexible coatings for offshore structures
Flexible coatings can be used in a number of ways to protect marine structures. They can be applied as a lining to pipes and platforms, used as a topcoat to help prevent corrosion and/or abrasion on platform decks, and much more.
Coating deck protrusions
The last thing you want on your oil rig deck is for liquids to seep through protrusions and into the ocean. The majority of offshore rigs cover penetrations with boots that are taped to the pipe and deck, however, these boots degrade in just a few months when exposed to salt and UV light.
The most efficient way to protect these protrusions is with a flexible polyurea coating. This type of coating will create a weather-resistant, liquid tight, flexible solution–saving you from costly repairs in the long term.
Protecting platform decks
Oil rig decks are prone to extreme abrasive damage. Standard surface coatings are abraded away quickly, leaving the bare metal subject to corrosion. When using a flexible polyurea coating, however, platform decks are not only resistant to abrasion, but also harsh weather. This type of coating cures rapidly and offers high-impact strength and, of course, flexibility.
Coating pipelines
Pipelines are one of the most important pieces of marine infrastructure, and just like decks, they need to be properly protected. Coating pipelines with a flexible polyurea will help protect them from corrosion, abrasion, chemical degradation, and more.
Flexible coatings can also be used as a lining inside pipes to provide an extra layer of protection.
When looking for the best way to protect your marine structures, it's important to consider all of your options. Flexible coatings are one of the most durable and reliable solutions on the market, and they can be used in a variety of ways to protect against the many threats posed by oceanic environments.
Corrosion can be tricky, but your offshore structure doesn't need to fall victim to it. Mark Tool's SplashTRON coating can be applied to various areas on an offshore platform, and is most commonly used to protect risers, j-tubes, spools, bends, and more from the corrosive elements of the splash zone. Contact us today to request a quote!