CORROSION RESISTANT RUBBER LINING TIPS
Protecting your tank, vessel, or storage container is paramount when transporting or storing chemical assets with corrosive properties.
Choosing the wrong corrosion resistant rubber lining can be a critical failure, costing you unforeseen time, money and extra effort. Not to mention the safety of your workers who could be at risk with any potential lining breakdown.
If you’re concerned about corrosion protection at your facility, then these four lining attributes will be paramount in your material selection.
1. Lifespan
Many different factors make up the eventual lifespan of a corrosion resistant rubber lining. Given proper installation and routine maintenance, Blair Rubber Co. linings typically achieve lifespans of 10-20 years in chemical applications.
One obvious factor that can impact the lifespan of your corrosion resistant lining is the product being stored and its concentration. Chemicals like hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid can quickly destroy an incompatible lining. Natural rubber, for example, is suitable for hydrochloric applications while Chlorobutyl is good in a hydrofluoric service.
Other types of materials used in corrosion resistance are typically fiberglass or a urethane spray/paint on application. These options may be attractive in price or speed of application but typically do not see nearly the lifespan of a rubber lining. The rigidity of fiberglass can eventually lead to cracking, while spray-on applications are very thin and often require continuous reapplication.
2. Durability
The durability of a vessel lining solution will always be a point of emphasis when searching for a corrosion resistant rubber lining.
Rubber’s durability makes it perfect for many corrosive applications. Different factors like temperature and abrasion resistance can impact the durability, but rubber often outperforms other materials.
For example, exposure to UV and ozone can degrade certain polymer types while others possess inherent weather resistance. Chlorobutyl and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Di-Monomer) are often the recommended lining types in applications where UV and ozone are factors.
Rubber is also durable enough to withstand extreme temperatures in service, from below zero to over 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Polymer types like bromobutyl and HNBR are excellent for meeting harsh temperature requirements.
3. Service Capabilities
Rubber linings can be used in many different applications, including containment of corrosive chemicals, oil, water and other substances. Overall, natural and synthetic rubber compounds can be used in a wider variety of services than competing lining types.
Some products such as Enduraflex VE621BC or Enduraflex RC621BC have the versatility to be used in a variety of chemical and corrosive applications. Crislip CC4624 is recommended for maximum service life in concentrated bleach but can also be used in other chemical services with outstanding results.
4. Repairability
No corrosion resistant lining can last forever. Eventually, you will need to repair or replace the vessel lining entirely.
Blair Rubber Co. recommends inspecting your linings every two years to help mitigate failure and an eventual total replacement. If inspected regularly, rubber linings can last far beyond other lining materials.
General repairs to a rubber lining of less than 18” can be executed with a simple fill and overlay using appropriate tools. More substantial repairs require a single sheet of rubber layer to be employed to reduce stress.
Repairability is important because, while price is always a factor in these decisions, the ability to fix and extend the life of a lining can pay dividends over time.
For more information on inspection and repair procedures, check our repair recommendations.
Blair Rubber has been a leader in corrosive resistant linings for nearly 40 years. Please contact us for a no-obligation discussion about our corrosion resistant lining products and how they can better protect your business assets.