3LPE or as referred to as 3-Layer Polyethylene is a multilayer coating applied on steel pipes that is composed of three functional components: 1. A high performance Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) primer, 2. a copolymer adhesive and 3. an outer layer of polyethylene. The outermost layer of polyethylene is what provides the 3LPE Coated Pipes with tough yet, durable protection. Piping systems that are coated with 3LPE offer excellent pipeline protection for both small as well as large diameter pipelines. Typically these piping systems operate at a moderately high temperature range.
In addition to having excellent adhesion to steel, the FBE component is what provides superior long term corrosion resistance along with protecting the Three-Layer Extruded Polyethylene Coating pipe operating at moderate temperatures. In instances, where a LAT or a Low Application Temperature is required to be performed, Fusion Bonded Epoxy is regularly selected to be used as the primer. As a primer Fusion Bonded Epoxy ensures low preheating conditions alongside long term integrity of high strength steels i.e. steel grades that are X80 or higher. Since, 3LPE coated systems offer excellent resistance to cathodic disbondment, the 3 layer polyethylene coating pipe reduces lifecycle cost of cathodic protection, thus proving to be a cost effective solution. Advanced Manufacturing techniques permit for a customizable 3LPE coated system to cater to a buyer’s specific project.
The tough outer layer of the coating applied is what protects the PE Coating pipe not only during transportation but also during installation. Thereby the need for costly repairs is minimized. Moreover, the 3LPE External Coating used on pipes also provides an added in-ground protection against chemicals, shear forces, and abrasive soil conditions. With an increase in the thickness of the PE outer layer, the 3 Layer PE Coated Pipes in a system has the ability to provide a high level of mechanical protection when used in various severe environments without needing the use of costly backfill.
3LPE Coated Pipes consist of 3 layers for pipeline coating.
First layer of 3LPE Coating consists of Fusion Bonded Epoxy. This coating provides protection against corrosion and is fusion-bonded with the blasted steel surface.
Second layer is a copolymer adhesive which has excellent chemical bonding to the inner layer and the top layer of polyethylene.
Third layer is the layer of polyethylene which is used for protection against any physical damage of the pipes.
Third layer of polyethylene coated pipes are the preferred choice for transmission of oil and gas around the world. It can withstand varying temperatures and environments ranging from desert drylands to deep underwater regions. 3LPE coated steel pipes are used for transportation of oil and gas, drinking water and other fluids. 3LPE coated pipes can be used in the high temperatures as high as 60o C to 80 oC.
Following Standards are used in manufacturing of 3LPE Coated Pipes are: