Belzona Applications for the Steel Industry

The steel sector, with its relentless rolling mills and scorching blast furnaces, demands robust solutions to combat abrasion, erosion, corrosion, and chemical attack. In this latest edition of Industrial Insights, we highlight how Belzona’s repair and protection systems help mitigate these challenges.

Case Study:

Cooling Pipework Corrosion Repair

At a steel plant in Normandie, France, severe corrosion in a 100-meter cooling pipe compromised the system’s integrity. The pipework had become corroded through repeated exposure to seawater which increases the efficiency of the corrosion process, gradually reducing the wall thickness of the pipe. Left unchecked, this would have eventually led to a through-wall defect, which would result in costly downtime.

The Belzona Solution:

The client chose Belzona 5811 (Immersion Grade) for its proven seawater resistance. Grit-blasting the pipe surfaces to SSPC-SP10 standards prepared the area for two coats of Belzona 5811 (Immersion Grade) , applied using airless spraying for consistent protection. The result was long-term corrosion protection, saving the client from costly repairs and future downtime.

What are Belzona’s Key Applications in the Steel Industry?

Machinery in steel plants operates under demanding conditions, so the key areas for this industry focus on surface protection.

Fluid and Gas Handling Equipment

Erosion and corrosion caused by the flow of liquids or gases through equipment can lead to breakdowns, process delays, and costly shutdowns. The Belzona 1000 Series mitigates erosion and provides a corrosion-protective barrier. These products are designed to adhere to a wide variety of substrates, including metals and non-metals, and can even function under immersion, improving energy efficiency and reducing health and safety risks.

Containment Areas

Chemical containment areas, such as bunds and sumps, are vulnerable to deterioration due to chemical attacks and mechanical damage. The Belzona 4000 and 5000 Series provide chemical-resistant solutions for resurfacing and protecting these areas. They offer excellent resistance to chemicals and impact, ensuring long-term protection, and can be applied to areas under immersion, preventing leaks and environmental contamination while complying with safety regulations.

Abrasion Resistance and Solids Handling

Equipment handling abrasive materials, like iron ore, can suffer damage over time. The Belzona 2000 Series provides in-situ repairs for rubber surfaces, offering rapid cure and resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and tears. For metallic surfaces, the Belzona 1000 Series has ceramic-enhanced solutions which boost abrasion resistance, prolonging the life of machinery and reducing downtime.

Shimming of Worn Equipment

Equipment sitting on uneven surfaces due to vibrations or heavy loading can lead to operational inefficiencies. The Belzona 7000 Series, including products like Belzona 7111 , is engineered for precise equipment levelling. These materials offer high load-bearing capacity, no shrinkage, and can withstand impact, vibration, and harsh environments, making them ideal for industrial machinery.

Facilities Maintenance

Heavy transport, contaminants, and exposure to the elements can cause floors, walls, and roofs in steel mills to deteriorate. The Belzona 5000 Series provides durable, slip-resistant coatings for floors and high-strength solutions for areas exposed to traffic and chemicals. UV-stable coatings ensure external surfaces remain protected, while roofing products can address leaks and structural movement, preventing significant facility damage.

The Future of Belzona in Steel

As the steel industry continues to grow, driven by increased demand, Belzona's repair and protection systems will play a vital role in ensuring equipment longevity and sustainability. By choosing Belzona, manufacturers are focusing on repairing and protecting machinery and equipment instead of opting for replacements. This approach not only extends the life of assets but also aligns with the steel industry's shift towards a more sustainable future, making Belzona’s role increasingly important.

Watch this video for a quick overview of Belzona in the Steel Industry:

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