Hello Pipe Enthusiasts!
Welcome back to
#BPIPipeInsights. After we discussed
“5 Advantages of Galvanized Steel Pipes for Construction and Industrial Projects”, this time we will cover concise and practical techniques to maintain galvanized pipes, prevent corrosion, and extend pipe service life by presenting brief and easy-to-implement field steps to prevent early damage and maintain operational continuity, because implementing simple routines from the installation stage often saves significant costs later.
Galvanized pipes provide good corrosion protection but still require maintenance to keep performance and service life optimal. Let’s discuss them one by one.
Preventive Techniques before & during installation
Before installation, a few simple preventive actions determine the durability of the galvanized layer and the overall system integrity.
- Plan routing to avoid water pooling and acidic soil.
- Select appropriate dimensions and wall thickness according to service pressure.
- Provide mechanical protection at support points and penetrations.
- Use compatible fittings to reduce galvanic corrosion.
- Isolate soil contact with wrapping or neutral bedding.
Preventive measures taken correctly from the start reduce the risk of costly repairs and extend pipe service life.
Routine maintenance (daily to annual)
Regular maintenance helps detect issues early so corrective actions can be quick and inexpensive.
- Regular visual inspections to spot rust patches or scratches.
- Clean dirt, mud, and vegetation that trap moisture.
- Immediately dry areas with standing water.
- Schedule technical inspections every 6–12 months for critical areas.
Consistency in simple maintenance preserves the effectiveness of the zinc layer and minimizes operational disruptions.
Brief technical inspection
Appropriate inspection methods provide objective data for repair decisions.
- Measure coating thickness with a gauge.
- Perform adhesion tests or magnified inspections at suspicious points.
- Record inspection results and map locations to prioritize repairs.
Documenting inspection results facilitates repair prioritization and long-term asset management.
Quick repairs & re-galvanizing
When damage is found, choose the most effective action based on severity.
- Minor damage: clean, apply zinc-rich primer and a topcoat.
- Severe damage: replace the affected pipe segment following welding procedures and QC.
- Widespread thinning: consider re-galvanizing based on a cost-benefit analysis.
Timely actions prevent damage escalation and reduce downtime.
Short maintenance checklist
Use a checklist to simplify field routines.
- Verify certificates and coating-thickness reports upon receipt.
- Visual inspections weekly; technical inspections every 6–12 months.
- Document findings and actions in the asset management system.
- Prepare emergency procedures for leaks.
A simple checklist ensures consistency and eases maintenance audits.
Conclusion
Preventive maintenance and consistent periodic inspections are effective in extending the lifespan of galvanized pipes and reducing operational costs. Apply the steps above from design through operation for maximum results.
If you need galvanized steel pipes or galvanized pipes in various sizes and specifications, trust Bakrie Pipe Industries for your needs, contact the Marketing & Sales team at PT Bakrie Pipe Industries.
