SPONSORS OF COATINGS AND CORROSION FEATURE
INCREASING THE LIFE
EXPECTANCY OF WIND ENERGY EQUIPMENT
Paints and coatings are readily available to protect the external surfaces of wind tower superstructure components such as hubs, blades and nacelles from exposure to aggressive ‘local’ environments, whether inland or offshore.
But how can engineers ensure the long- term integrity of mechanical components against aggressive corrosion, especially in remote marine or heavily industrialised environments?
What techniques are available to extend the life of new equipment or refurbish worn or corroded components and, just as importantly, what are the comparative cost benefits using expensive base materials or replacing the part?
OPTIONS There are a number of options available but the final choice will normally be based on factors such as the application, service life, operational priorities, installation deadlines and, of course, budget restraints.
Where budget isn’t a constraint, engineers can specify components in corrosion or wear resistant alloys that will withstand environmental conditions. However, this is rarely the case and more cost-effective options are usually sought.
WELD OVERLAY CLADDING Wherever components require protection, weld overlay cladding is certainly a versatile option, providing a heavy-duty metallurgically-bonded protective layer that will not be undermined in hostile environments.
ADVANTAGES In offshore environments in particular, weld overlay cladding offers clear advantages because protection can be applied specifically to the areas under attack, eliminating the need to produce a whole component or piece of plant from an expensive corrosion resistant material.
However, the overwhelming advantage is its versatility. Whatever the shape or size of the equipment – from a single shaft to a transmission system – there is a welding process and an alloy to counteract the different levels of corrosive attack.
Weld overlay cladding is a proven and recognised cost-saving technology that is well established in the oil & gas industry offshore and onshore and nuclear environments. Now, engineers in the renewable energy industries can share the significant practical and financial benefits of increased life expectancy.
Arc Energy Resources
www.arcenergy.co.uk
e = See enhanced entry online
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk
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