Bruce Rutherford

surface profile pitted steel

Surface Profile Measurement Options on Rough/Pitted Steel Surfaces

Introduction Surface profile is defined as a measurement of the maximum peak-to-valley depth generated by abrasive blast cleaning and impact-type power tools. These operations effectively increase the surface area and provide an “anchor” for the applied coating system. The surface profile depth must be compatible with the total coating system thickness; typically, the thicker the …

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fusion bonded epoxy coating

Major Consequences of Minor Defects in Exterior Pipeline Coatings

A minor defect in an exterior pipeline coating can have huge consequences.   Consider the fire from the Spectra Energy 30” buried pipeline in Salem Township, Westmoreland County, PA on April 30, 2016.  Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that a pinhole or flaw in the tape wrap used to protect the field welded joints may …

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