The oil and gas industry uses many challenging raw materials and processes, such as refining crude oil, production of plastic, cosmetics, and other petrochemical products, and purifying natural gas. This means that the equipment and other components used in the industry, such as pipes, storage tanks, valves, rods, and other fittings, are constantly in contact with corrosive and harsh chemicals.
This exposure to chemicals can cause internal or external damage to this equipment, giving rise to defects that eventually lead to leaks and explosions. For the safety and optimization of all industrial processes, oil and gas industries are gradually shifting towards the use of nonmetallic solutions, which offer minimum loss of efficiency and failure of processes than other metallic solutions.
Significance of Nonmetallic Solutions in Oil and Gas Industry
Nonmetallic solutions are more cost-effective and affordable as compared to metallic components. This is because metallic pipelines and tanks can corrode or degrade over time, thus demanding a costly repair. Shutting down such operations due to the failure of equipmentalso leads to major economic losses. Instead of going through the hassle of replacing a defective component, industries are opting for nonmetallic solutions that are longer lasting and more resistant than metals.
Since the oil and gas industry uses hydrocarbons in its various operations, when a need for repair arises, using hot methods such as welding may not be suitable for repairing metallic pipes or other products. This is why the defective equipment is replaced rather than repaired. Nonmetallic products are preferred over metallic components to handle these corrosive and dangerous chemicals.
Nonmetallic equipment such as fiberglass is made with a thermoset epoxy system, which can resist high-temperature range and any corrosive internal or external factors. Fiberglass is not just used to manufacture pipes and tanks but also tees, flanges, elbows, and other joints. Repair of fiberglass material is easier and doesn’t require shutting down the whole operation, thus saving labor costs and economy loses.
Why Are Nonmetallic Solutions in Oil and Gas Industry So Important?
Nonmetallic solutions such as fiberglass pipes and fiberglass tanks are innovative and advantageous components to face many challenges that the oil and gas industry experience. Here is how they can improve cost-effectiveness and reduce environmental risks in the industry;
Corrosion Resistance
The most demanding challenge that the oil and gas industry often faces is corrosion. Industries that use steel or other metallic storage tanks and pipes have to spend tons of money on corrosion prevention strategies. However, there is still a chance of degradation of the equipment and subsequent leaking of dangerous raw materials into the environment.
Nonmetallic have a smoother and more protective internal and external surface that is highly resistant not just against chemicals but high temperatures and pressure too. The smooth surface offers minimum friction, which reduces abrasion and damage to the pipes. It is only a matter of time before the nonmetallic solutions will face a boost in their growth rate and use in the oil and gas industries.
Lightweight and Flexibility Properties
Fiberglass pipes and sheets are lightweight and flexible, which allows greater freedom for customization according to the industry’s needs. Fiberglass is easy to transport and manufacture, and the industry can design it to meet their individual requirements.
Fiberglass-reinforced plastic pipes and tanks are more advantageous as compared to concrete and steel tanks, as they are absolutely waterproof and offer longer service life.
Low Maintenance
Nonmetallic solutions have smooth walls as they are made from resin and have additional components in their structure that make them highly abrasion resistant. All these qualities make water pumping and chemical treatment pass easily through the pipes without meeting any resistance and thus damaging its surface. Having this resin-coated surface also reduces the chance of any buildup in the pipe’s interior, which requires less cleaning and maintenance needs.
Chemical Resistance
Storage tanks and pipes in the oil and gas industry are used to store and transport harsh chemicals and hydrocarbons, which can corrode any metal surface during its long-term use. Leading industries in the oil and gas sector are rapidly shifting towards nonmetallic solutions so that they can avail the benefits of high-quality, long-lasting, and tough equipment.
Conclusion
CNPS is a leading nonmetallic solutions provider for the oil and gas industries. We offer high-quality nonmetallic solutions for industries such as fiberglass pipes, tanks, and other materials that can help such industries overcome commonly faced challenges with the use of high pressure and temperature, and corrosive chemicals. Contact us now for the state-of-the-art fiberglass tanks and other products.
