F
usion bonded epoxy (FBE) is considered
to be one of the most commonly used
corrosion coatings in the world for new
pipeline construction. However, corrosion
coatings alone may not provide adequate
protection that is necessary during the storage,
transportation, installation and operation of a
pipeline. To ensure the highest level of defence
possible, additional coating layers are often
applied to the FBE corrosion coating to provide
enhanced durability. An example of this added
layer of protection is an abrasion resistant outer
coat (ARO) that works to provide a more damage-
resistant coating system. Similarly, powder coating
can be applied over the existing FBE corrosion
coating to provide ultraviolet (UV) resistance for
use in above ground applications or during storage
of coated pipe.
Why is UV protection needed for FBE
coated line pipe?
FBE coatings are made of several types of raw
material, including epoxy resins, curing agents
(hardeners), catalysts, pigments and fillers. The
epoxy resins most frequently used in FBE coatings
are aromatic, which – when exposed to UV light
– begin to degrade and form a residue on the
coating’s surface. The degradation and formation
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