Pipelines, as we know them, are efficient means of transporting fluids such as natural gas and oil, liquids, and other chemicals. However, these pipelines are prone to corrosion and failure due to their harsh operating environment and strong corrosiveness. Therefore, it is highly recommended to have an effective coating system as required to reduce the corrosion rate and protect the pipeline from failure. Among various coating systems, 3PE and 3PP coating systems have been widely recognized. In this article, we will discuss the differences, properties, advantages, and applications of 3PE and 3PP coating systems. 

What is a 3PE coating system? 

3PE (Triple Layer Polyethylene) coating is a well-known pipeline coating system consisting of three layers, an inner epoxy layer (known as Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE)), an adhesive layer, and an outer polyethylene layer.  The FBE layer is the outermost layer of the pipe and it helps provide strong bonding properties to the steel pipe. The bonding layer is the middle layer of the pipe that helps bond the FBE layer to the steel surface. Finally, the polyethylene layer is the innermost layer of the pipe and is designed to provide protection from the external corrosive environment.

Performance and advantages of the 3PE coating system:

The 3PE coating system has the following advantages, making it an ideal solution for pipeline coating and protection: 

Excellent corrosion resistance: 3PE coating provides excellent corrosion resistance for pipelines.  The FBE layer provides a barrier to corrosive elements such as water, oxygen, and chloride ions. The adhesive layer provides adhesive properties that help bond the coating to the pipe surface. Finally, the polyethylene layer acts as a barrier and provides corrosion protection.

Tough and Durable: The 3PE coating provides pipes with an exceptional level of durability and toughness. This quality is of great value in transportation environments where pipes are subjected to mechanical forces and wear.

High-temperature resistance: 3PE coating system provides high-temperature resistance up to 80°C, suitable for a wide range of industrial applications in various industries.

Low maintenance cost: Due to the excellent resistance and durability of the 3PE coating to harsh environmental conditions, the maintenance cost is extremely low.

Cost-effective: 3PE coating systems are highly cost-effective compared to other coating alternatives such as concrete weight coating.

Application of 3PE coating system:

3PE coating systems are used in a range of industries where pipelines are required to transport liquids, gases, and other chemicals. Some applications are: 

Oil and gas industry: 3PE coatings are often used to protect pipelines transporting crude oil, natural gas, and other petroleum products.

Water supply industry: 3PE coating is widely used in pipelines for transporting drinking water, wastewater, and industrial water. The coating system ensures the purity of the delivered water by reducing the risk of corrosion.

Mining industry: 3PE coatings are used as protective coatings for pipelines conveying mining operation fluids such as mud, tailings, and other chemicals.

Chemical industry: 3PE coating system is used to protect pipelines transporting various corrosive chemicals and gases (such as acids, alkalis, and solvents).

What is a 3PP coating system?

3PP (3-Layer Polypropylene) coating system is another well-known pipeline coating system, which consists of three layers of coating, namely, an anti-corrosion base layer, adhesive layer, and polypropylene outer layer. The base layer consists of an epoxy or polyurethane primer, while the adhesive layer is the middle layer that helps bond the coating to the pipe surface.

Performance and advantages of the 3PP coating system:

3PP coating systems have the following advantages, making them an ideal solution for pipeline coating and protection:

1. Excellent corrosion resistance: 3PP coating provides pipes with excellent resistance to corrosion elements, including water, oxygen, and chloride ions. 2. High-temperature resistance: 3PP coating system provides high-temperature resistance up to 110°C, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications in various industries.

3. Impact and Abrasion Resistance: The 3PP coating system provides excellent protection against environmental factors such as abrasive solids, mechanical stress, and impact, making it extremely durable and tough.

4. Environmental protection: The 3PP coating system does not contain heavy metals and volatile organic compounds, and is an environmentally friendly alternative to coatings. Safe and suitable for all walks of life.

5. Low maintenance cost: 3PP coating has strong resistance to harsh environments such as ultraviolet radiation, moisture, chemicals, or gases, and does not require frequent maintenance.Section

Application of 3PP coating system:

3PP coating systems are used in a variety of industries including:

1. Oil and gas industry: 3PP coatings are widely used to protect pipelines transporting crude oil, natural gas, and other petroleum products.

2. Chemical industry: 3PP coating system is used to protect pipelines transporting various corrosive chemicals and gases (such as acids, alkalis, and solvents).

3. Water supply industry: 3PP coating system helps to protect pipelines from corrosive elements, ensuring the safety of drinking water, wastewater, and industrial water

Both 3PE and 3PP coating systems have unique characteristics and properties that make them suitable for a variety of industrial applications.  3PE coating systems provide excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance in different industries, while 3PP coating systems provide abrasion and impact resistance, making them ideal for harsh environmental conditions. Proper application and maintenance of coating systems can significantly extend the service life of pipelines and reduce the risk of accidents.

Characteristics and advantages of 3PE coating

Methods for connecting 3PE coated steel pipes

How is 3PE coating produced?

Characteristics and process flow of 3PE coating