Fasteners used in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industry must be able to allow equipment and infrastructure to operate under extreme conditions of pressure, temperature, and corrosive environments. The proper selection, application, and protective coatings of fasteners within this sector prevents leaks, supports pipeline structures, and safeguards the integrity of the entire system.
Within the oil, gas, and petrochemical industry, fasteners can be used in a variety of different places from the pipelines, that need to be connected above ground and subsea, to pressure vessels and tanks, and offshore platforms that require fasteners that can withstand saltwater corrosion and high winds. Additionally, fasteners are used in components of drilling equipment, including drill strings, casings, and wellhead equipment. These must be able to tolerate vibrations associated with use.
Two types of fasteners commonly used in this sector include:
ASTM A193 B7 Studs
These studs are often considered the staple of the oil and gas industry. Their primary function is to flange pipes and valves together. To enhance their durability in harsh environments, ASTM A193 B7 studs are typically coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon.
Place Bolts
Place bolts are self-locking, free-spinning hex head bolts designed to prevent loosening due to vibration. Unlike traditional bolts, their locking action relies on the heads rather than the threads. Place bolts offer up to seven times more vibration resistance than regular hex head cap screws.
To protect the equipment and fasteners from things like corrosion and abrasion, protective coatings are often applied to enhance performance and protect from seizing, galling, surface damage, and other forms of degradation. Some common coatings used in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries include:
Aluminum Coatings: Aluminum coatings offer corrosion resistance and are often used in conjunction with zinc coatings to provide additional protection against corrosion. Aluminum coatings can be applied through various methods, including thermal spray techniques.
Cadmium Coatings: Cadmium coatings offer superior corrosion resistance compared to zinc coatings and are particularly effective in highly corrosive environments, such as offshore and marine applications. However, cadmium coatings are less commonly used today due to environmental and health concerns associated with cadmium exposure.
Chrome Coatings: Chrome coatings provide corrosion resistance and wear resistance and are often used in conjunction with other coatings or treatments to enhance performance. Chrome coatings can be applied through electroplating or other deposition methods.
Epoxy Coatings: Epoxy coatings provide excellent chemical resistance and corrosion protection for fasteners exposed to aggressive environments, including exposure to acids, alkalis, and solvents. These coatings are commonly used in offshore and subsea applications, as well as in chemical processing plants.
Phosphate Coatings: Phosphate coatings provide a base layer for subsequent coatings or treatments and offer enhanced corrosion resistance and improved adhesion of organic coatings. Phosphate coatings are often used as a pretreatment for fasteners before applying paint or other organic coatings.
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) Coatings: PTFE coatings, also known as Teflon coatings, offer low friction and excellent non-stick properties, making them ideal for fasteners used in applications where lubrication is difficult or where resistance to galling and seizing is required.
Xylan Coatings: Xylan coatings are fluoropolymer-based coatings known for their low friction, chemical resistance, and high temperature resistance. These coatings are often used on fasteners in environments with exposure to chemicals, acids, and high temperatures, such as in petrochemical plants and refineries.
Zinc Coatings: Zinc coatings, such as hot-dip galvanizing or zinc electroplating, provide excellent corrosion protection for fasteners exposed to atmospheric conditions or mild corrosive environments.
Fasteners provide the mechanical strength and integrity needed to withstand the harsh operating conditions encountered in exploration, production, transportation, and refining activities. Proper selection and installation of fasteners are critical to ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of oil and gas infrastructure.
IFE showcases every type of fastener for several industries including the one mentioned in this blog post, along with construction, aerospace, military, automotive, and more. The size, scope, and diversification of the show makes it a go-to event for every stage of the supply chain. Save the date for IFE 2024, September 9-11, in Las Vegas!
