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 factors influence the lifespan of a corrosion-resistant rubber lining. With proper installation and routine maintenance, a rubber lining can provide years of reliable service.
Key factors that can impact the lifespan of your corrosion-resistant lining are the chemical being stored and its concentration. Chemicals like hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid can destroy an incompatible lining. Natural rubber, for example, is suitable for hydrochloric applications while chlorobutyl is better suited in a hydrofluoric service.
Other types of materials used in corrosion resistance are typically fiberglass or urethane spray/paint-on application. These options may be attractive in price or speed of application but typically do not see 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. While factors like temperature and abrasion resistance can impact the durability, 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 Diene 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°F (121°C). Polymer types like bromobutyl are excellent for meeting harsh temperature requirements.
3. Service Capabilities
Rubber linings are suitable for many different applications, including containment of corrosive chemicals, oil, water, and other substances. Overall, natural and synthetic rubber compounds are suitable for a wider variety of services than competing lining types.
Enduraflex® VE621BC or Enduraflex® RC621BC are suitable for use in a range of chemical and corrosive applications. Crislip® CC4624 is a suitable lining for maximum service life for concentrated bleach services and may be considered in other chemical applications depending on the operating conditions and service requirements.
4. Repairability
No corrosion-resistant lining can last forever. Eventually, you will need to repair or replace the vessel’s lining entirely.
Mitigate failure and eventual total replacement with an inspection plan. If inspected regularly, rubber linings can last far beyond other lining materials.
General repairs to a rubber lining of less than 18” are made 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.