Fusion Bonded Epoxy Coating Process

SURFACE PREPARATION

Proper surface preparation is the foundation for a quality fusion bonded epoxy coating job. A&A coating, Inc. utilizes multiple Wheelabrator cleaning machines, which are calibrated to provide an optimum floor of cleaning media to the pipe surface in order to create an anchor pattern and maximum degree of cleaning. In regards to fusion bonded epoxy coating, The use of multiple machines also prevents cross contamination of the cleaning media. Cleaning materials are constantly monitored for contamination and particle size degradation.

HEATERS

Fusion bonded epoxy coating materials must be applied to a steel surface which has been heated to a precise temperature. A&A Coating, Inc. achieves this important step for fusion bonded epoxy coating with multiple inline gas heating units which are electronically monitored, and capable of precise temperature control.

POWDER COATING APPLICATION

The coating material for fusion bonded epoxy coating is applied to the pipe in a negative atmosphere chamber using electrostatic guns operated in conjunction with a fluidized bed system. Each gun can be individually adjusted for pressure and delivery volume, as well as voltage levels. This system assures a smooth, continuous fusion bonded epoxy coating film, free of thickness variations.

QUENCH LINE

After the fusion bonded epoxy coating application, the pipe is subjected to a water quench. This procedure cools the pipe to a safe handling temperature, and conditions the coating surface to lessen the possibility of subsequent damage during handling

COOLING TOWER

A specialized heat exchanger in which air and water are brought into direct contact with one another in order to reduce the water’s temperature. As this occurs, a small volume of water is evaporated, reducing the temperature of the water being circulated through the tower. This ensures a smooth Fusion bonded epoxy coating process.

DUAL HIGH SPEED POWDER TRANSFER

The powder transfer system allows Fusion bonded epoxy coating powder to be transported as needed and screened prior to application to ensure no foreign particles enter the spray system.

WHEELABRATOR BLASTER

Equipped with two blast wheels, our new blast machines are suitable for cleaning pipe from 2″ (OD) to 36″ (O) at 200 square feet/min, reassuring our customers optimal surface preparation for a superior coating. This will allow debris and rust that have accumulated on the pipe to be be more sufficiently bead blasted off.

WHEELABRATOR DUST COLLECTOR

In conjunction with our advanced blasting machines, we are also installing the Wheelabrator Dust Collector. The stainless steel structure is equipped with 5,850 CFM @ 2.5 : 1 Air to Cloth ration and a fan rating of 10 inches of static pressure.

BLAST AND TRANSFER LINE

Upgraded with complete AC Eurodrive/motor systems to allow precision blast and profile.

TRACE-ABILITY

We are currently working with NektarData to implement an up-to-date Trace-Ability system. This will allow us to have every individual joints specific details at the scan of a QR tag and track its progress from the time in comes into our yard until shipping back out to our customers. We are always looking for ways to enhance our fusion bonded epoxy coating process.