One method of epoxy coating is fusion-bonded epoxy (FBE) coating, which is often used in industries requiring corrosion-free steel pipes and fittings.
Fusion-bonded epoxy coating involves the application of epoxy coating to steel pipes, rebars (reinforcement bars), pipes and valves to protect the structures from corrosion for a long time.
Epoxy coatings are a very viable and green alternative to protective coating. Facility managers intending to comply with federal and local regulations on environment protection and conservation should consider using epoxy coatings in their protective coating and maintenance projects.
Because epoxy coating is made from eco-friendly organic resin, surfaces applied with epoxy coatings are guaranteed free from environmentally-hazardous solvents or substances often found in ordinary paint. Such dangerous substances often come off the surface when subjected to natural elements like air and water, potentially causing health and safety risks to users and the environment.
The FBE process starts with dry epoxy powder melted at prescribed temperatures of around 180 to 250°C (360 to 480 °F). At the correct temperature, the epoxy powder turns into liquid form and adheres into the steel surface. Once the liquefied epoxy powder dries, it cross-links or “fusion-bonds” to every square-inch of the steel surface permanently. This means the epoxy coating applied to the steel material is impervious to any external changes from then on, thereby protecting the steel structure effectively and permanently.
