Fusion-bonded epoxy coating otherwise known as FBE coating is an epoxy-based powder coating that is commonly used to protect steel equipment in the oil and gas industry from corrosion.
FBE coatings were introduced in the early 1960s and since then have improved tremendously to become one of the best protective coating products for companies around the globe.
This post will break down which industries use FBE coatings and why they have become so popular. We also explore System 8 — a high-quality IPC FBE coating that offers a low coefficient of friction and resists numerous types of chemicals, fluids and gasses.
If you have questions about an FBE coating or our coating products in general, contact us today.
Learn More About IPC FBE Coating System 8
Which Industries Use FBE Coatings?
Today, FBE coatings are used widely in harsh environments around the world where H₂S, CO₂, CH₄, crude oil, and brine are present, particularly in municipal water & sewage and oil and gas industries. Their ability to strongly protect against corrosion and abrasion dramatically lengthens the service life of the equipment and reduces costs associated with repairs and replacements.
FBE Coating: Why Has it Become So Popular?
There are several reasons why fusion-bonded epoxy coatings have become the gold standard for companies across Canada and the globe. We outline some of the top reasons below.
Superior Corrosion Protection: An FBE coating includes several excellent corrosion resistance properties. When you apply the coating to a metal surface such as a pipe, it creates a tough and virtually impermeable barrier that prevents moisture, chemicals, and other corrosive agents from reaching the underlying substrate. This works to lengthen the overall lifespan of pipes and other metal structures which reduces maintenance costs, and project delays and increases the reliability of the equipment itself.
Great Adhesion To Metal Surfaces: Fusion-bonded epoxy coatings have impressive adhesion characteristics, which means they form a tight bond with the metal substrate being coated. This adhesion helps ensure the coating remains intact even under challenging environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, soil movements, and stress from transportation and installation.
Excellent Abrasion Resistance: An FBE coating also showcase strong resistance to abrasion and mechanical damage. This makes them perfect for oil and gas equipment that often encounters abrasive materials during operation and transportation.
Strong High-Temperature Resistance: FBE coatings can withstand relatively high temperatures without losing their protective properties, making them suitable for applications in the oil and gas industry where high-temperature environments are common.
Cost-Effective: While the initial cost of applying FBE coatings may be a higher investment than other coating methods and materials, the long-term cost savings achieved through reduced maintenance and extended asset life make it a cost-effective solution in the long-term
Also Read: Solid Film Lubricants Explained: Moly, PTFE and Graphite
Interested in an FBE Coating For Your Next Project?
At Integrated Protective Coatings, we carry a high-quality FBE coating known as System 8 that has been tailored made to provide incredible resistance to harsh environments seen in wastewater, corrosive soil, hydrocarbons, harsh chemicals and seawater. System 8 has also been tested and certified to meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61 making it safe for drinking water system components.
Interested in learning more about our FBE coating or how we might assist with your next project? Contact our sales team today at +1 800-856-4959 or connect with us online.
We are capable of coating parts up to 20’ long X 6’ wide and 6’ and can apply the coating to various parts of pipes including the body of the pipe, internal surfaces, girth welds as well as fittings.
