TPT November 2010

lasting

, C

oating

and

alvanizing

echnology

Manual grit-blasting of the inside diameter

of a tube is a difficult and time-consuming

procedure that yields disappointing results: areas

that are either not clean or cleaned too vigorously,

leaving weak spots. In an automated blast cycle, a titanium

lance travels at consistent speed through the tube, providing

even contact and excellent part quality.

That evolution in processing also typifies the other two

specialities considered here. The strength, ease of fabrication,

versatility, and low cost of carbon steel commend it for

tubular products. But unprotected steel surfaces are famously

susceptible to corrosion. Hence coating and galvanizing;

and, with them, resistance to moisture, oxygen, solvents,

temperature extremes, and a host of other threats to a long and

reliable service life for the tubular product or part.

Photo: Zircotec