Engineering Poster E1: The use of corrosion protection measures to extend the service life of lifting equipment in a marine environment
Ben Burgess A *A William Hackett Lifting Products, Alnwick, Northumberland, UK.
The APPEA Journal 62 - https://doi.org/10.1071/AJ21413
Published: 3 June 2022
Abstract
Poster E1
Lifting operations in marine environments pose several challenges of which corrosion and embrittlement of steel components are some of the most important ones from a material property perspective. Corrosion reactions are not only damaging to the surface of the components which can lead to stress raisers and a reduced service life but can also promote hydrogen embrittlement (HE), especially on components that operate in the splash zone. Early warning signs of product failures related to corrosion/embrittlement are almost impossible to detect during normal inspections, and catastrophic failures can result suddenly and without warning. The overarching causes of and preventative measures associated with HE have been identified. However, the positive effects of corrosion protection and an evaluation of the technologies that are available to equipment manufacturers are also important factors to be considered. This paper considers the use of corrosion protection measures and the evolution of those technologies which act as a deterrent against HE, extend the service life of steel alloy lifting equipment, reduce potentially harmful environmental impacts, and ultimately improve the safety aspects of such equipment. The authors use case study tests to argue the benefits of using thermal diffusion zinc coating as the corrosion protective measure that provides a high standard of corrosion protection, mitigation of HE and environmental impacts, and without compromising equipment identification requirements.
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Keywords: anti-spark properties, corrosion, corrosion protection, environmental impacts, hydrogen embrittlement, lifting operations, marine environments, product life cycle, product testing, sherardising, steel chain components, zinc thermal diffusion.
Ben Burgess has been employed within the lifting equipment supply sector for 10 years. He has been instrumental in developing a program for continuous improvement and new product development. Ben is a is qualified LEEA Registered Technician TEAM cardholder and is an active participant in a range of industry commercial and technical forums. Ben is influencing the global offshore lifting and rigging market through a technically led industry research initiative. He is challenging historic norms and providing advisory services to operators, contractors, and class and certification organisations on the importance of correct material selection for use in offshore lifting applications. |
