UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS is committed to providing durable and effective repair solutions for marine infrastructure. This case study details the successful repair and protection of vessel sea water pipes using UPS 19000 RH THISTLEBOND STANDARD RESIN & HARDENER and UPS 19007 GT THISTLEBOND GLASS TAPE.

Sea water pipes on a vessel were exhibiting significant signs of corrosion and leakage, which posed a threat to the vessel’s operational integrity. The pipes required a durable solution to stop the leaks and prevent further degradation from the corrosive effects of sea water.

The primary challenge was to implement a repair solution that would effectively seal the leaks and protect the pipes from future corrosion. The solution needed to be robust enough to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring long-term protection and extending the pipes' service life.

UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS provided a comprehensive repair and protection solution using UPS ThistleBond Composite Wrapping. The process involved the following steps:

Surface Preparation

- The pipe substrates were abraded to ISO 8501/4 ST3 (SSPC SP3 ST3) using mechanical grinders. This surface preparation was crucial to ensure that the resin and tape adhered properly to the pipes. 

Application of UPS 19000 RH THISTLEBOND STANDARD RESIN & HARDENER and UPS 19007 GT THISTLEBOND GLASS TAPE

- UPS 19000 RH was applied to the repair area at a thickness of approximately 1mm.

- UPS 19007 GT was then embedded into the wet resin, with additional resin applied as necessary to ensure full saturation and adhesion.

This process was repeated until three layers of Glass Tape were applied, creating a strong, composite wrap that provided both a seal and a protective barrier against future corrosion.

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The application of UPS 19000 RH and UPS 19007 GT successfully sealed the leaks and protected the sea water pipes from further corrosion. The composite wrapping solution provided a durable, long-lasting repair that ensured the pipes could continue to operate efficiently in the harsh marine environment.

This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS' ThistleBond products in repairing and protecting marine infrastructure. Our advanced materials and precise application process provided a reliable solution that extended the service life of the sea water pipes, ensuring the vessel’s operational safety.