The largest Potash mining operators in the world rely on NOV Fiber Glass Systems piping products every day to keep their underground and solution mining facilities operating reliably and efficiently.
NOV Fiber Glass Systems has a 40+ year proven track record in handling hot saturated brines with their lightweight abrasion- and corrosion-resistant glass-reinforced epoxy (GRE) piping systems that provide “install it and forget it” reliability in demanding potash applications.
GRE’s composite construction of aromatic amine cured epoxy resin and premium glass fibre reinforcement produces a piping system with an unmatched strength:weight ratio when compared to thermoplastics or less advanced composites such as vinyl ester reinforced plastics. Our products have been tested for suitability from -180°C–149°C (-292°F–300°F) and are available with standard pressure ratings up to 240barg (3500psig). GRE has excellent resistance to water, wastewater, brine, solvents, hydrocarbons, acids and caustics.
Corrosion resistance
NOV Fiber Glass Systems’ GRE piping eliminates both internal and external corrosion. Furthermore, when piping is insulated, the concerns associated with corrosion under insulation are also mitigated.
Because GRE is nonmetallic, requirements for cathodic protection, anodes and corrosion inhibitors that would be required for a steel piping system are eliminated. Similarly, GRE does not suffer from (or contribute to) galvanic corrosion.
GRE does not suffer from residual elements corrosion, microbiologically-induced corrosion, and requires no coatings.
Enhanced flow properties
GRE tends to have a larger cross sectional area when compared to steel or thermoplastics. This leads to improved pumping efficiencies and less energy required to move the same amount of water. Less head loss over long distances means fewer (and smaller) pumping stations – this is particularly beneficial in solution mining operations.
In addition, GRE’s inner bore has an absolute roughness that is an order of magnitude better than new steel (Hazen-Williams C=150) which contributes to substantially lower head losses. This smooth bore is maintained over the life of the pipe system thanks to the inherent corrosion resistance of GRE – the system does not suffer from the corrosion-erosion cycle like steel. The smooth bore also provides a significant reduction in nucleation points for scale formation – scale buildup is dramatically reduced or eliminated when compared to steel pipe.
Optimized pipe rack layouts
GRE offers lower thermal end loads compared to thermoplastics or metallic piping. The high strength:weight ratio of the product means that thermal growth of long pipe runs can be managed by anchoring at the ends and guiding with intermediate supports to keep the pipe in compression and prevent buckling. This usually eliminates costly expansion joints and the layout complexities of adding expansion loops.
Because the product is lighter with lower thermal forces, supports and secondary steel requirements are simplified.
GRE offers the best spans amongst nonmetallic piping options – support spacing is reduced by at least 30% when compared to vinyl ester piping, and cut in half (or more, depending on temperature) when compared to thermoplastics.
Optimized buried piping system layouts
The low forces of expansion/thrust associated with GRE piping mean that virtual anchors can typically be utilized, eliminating the requirement for costly thrust blocks on long pipe runs.
GRE is flexible, which allows gradual changes in direction to be accommodated without the use of fittings. Long sections of pipe can be assembled next to the trench, and then roped into place using side booms or excavators.
External coatings and cathodic protection are not required for GRE pipe – bare pipe can be direct buried without the concern of external corrosion associated with steel piping.
Heat loss, insulation, heat tracing
The thermal conductivity of GRE piping is 99% lower than steel piping – a useful benefit in situations where there is an economic consequence to process fluids changing temperature from inlet to outlet in a pipeline.
Our products can be insulated in the same fashion as other materials, or preinsulated and jacketed by GF Urecon for ultimate energy efficiency. Green Thread HP16 or Star Super Seal Key Lock preinsulated with GF Urecon’s insulation system offers a piping system with virtually zero measurable heat loss from inlet to outlet, even when piping runs are many kilometers long.
When GRE piping systems are heat traced, a low-wattage self-regulating electric heat trace cable is the recommended choice.
Installation Benefits
Lighter weight – 60 – 85% lighter than steel means simplified handling.
Full QC and raw material traceability for bond (weld) mapping
Substantial reduction in carbon intensity:
Manufacturing: -31% (less energy intensive)
Transporting: -77% (lighter – more pipe/truck)
Pumping horsepower: -60% (larger, smoother bore)
System replacement: -65% (longer service life, easier to replace)
Bonded connections eliminate maintenance and leak paths at flanges/couplings associated with lined steel
Adhesive Technology
NOV Fiber Glass Systems is a pioneer and the recognized world leader of adhesive bonded bell x spigot and socket joint technology.
Adhesives are pre-measured, kitted and ready to use: mix part B into part A, and apply.
