The proven efficiency of epoxy flow coats for the protection of gas transmission pipelines

The concept of internally lining gas pipelines – known as internal flow coating – was first developed in the 1950s to counter the adverse effects on pipeline capacity, operation and pumping costs caused by the rough internal surface of steel pipes and the build-up of deposits and corrosion products. This paper reviews the benefits of considering an internal lining for gas transmission pipelines, and the relationship between the internal surface roughness, the pressure drop across the pipeline and the maximum flow rate of gas through the pipeline. This paper also outlines the benefits of internal flow coatings and the developments that have been made over recent decades in terms of coating materials, taking into account new challenges associated with gas production and transmission, and how they meet the current requirements of international standards and specifications.