If you’ve read our previous blog about why preventing OCTG corrosion is key, you know how important protective coatings are to ensure the quality of OCTG. This quality includes the pipes’ surface condition, integrity, damage-free state and ‘readiness to go’. All of these factors are vital for maintaining safety and environmental standards, and saving companies time and money.
Historically, the protective coatings have been solvent-based, but there has been a recent surge in the popularity of water-based coatings.
Solvent-based v water-based: what are the benefits?
Solvent-based coatings
30, 40 or 50 years ago, solvent-based coatings were the only type on the market. They’re tried and tested, and have been used by the biggest companies around the world for years. The AGMA range of solvent-based coatings, our Synergen products, are dominant and trusted in the markets of Europe, Central and South America, West Africa, Japan and the ASEAN region.
However, the world is changing. Priorities have changed and the environment, wildlife, and health and safety have become more and more important. Solvent-based coatings release a number of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can negatively affect the planet and workers. This is why water-based coatings have become increasingly popular.
Water-based coatings
Due to our belief in the importance of the environment, AGMA has worked incredibly hard on research and development to introduce water-based coatings to the oil and gas sector.
You may be wondering how water-based coatings can prevent corrosion, when water corrodes steel. Well, it doesn’t always – we provide a barrier to stop water coming into contact with steel. In water-based coatings, the water evaporates and leaves a barrier which prevents further water ingress.
We have also developed these coatings with as little impact as possible on performance, adaptability and cost compared to solvent-based coatings, and they’re just as user friendly and easy to apply.
Water-based coatings reduce pollution, safety hazards to personnel, control VOCs, and provide PR benefits to the oil and gas industry.
The reduction in VOCs also produces fewer unpleasant odours, and creates fewer hazards from fire risk, cleanup and disposal. By using them you also stay compliant and protected from the heavy fines that come if you exceed VOC quotas.
So, which type of solvent should you choose?
At AGMA, we have three different solvent-based coatings and three different water-based ones, so you can always find the perfect coating to keep your OCTG and people safe.
