Pipe Wrapping Services
RSC Group provides Pipe wrapping services for pipelines, pipework and fittings exposed to corrosive environments.
Using petrolatum tape wrapping systems, our teams protect external pipe surfaces against moisture and other conditions that can contribute to corrosion. The system can be applied to new pipework or used during the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing assets.
Protection shaped around the pipe
Pipelines include bends, flanges, valves and joints that can be difficult to protect with conventional coating systems alone. Surface irregularities and changes in profile may create vulnerable areas where moisture can reach the underlying metal.
Tape wrapping conforms closely to the contours of the pipe and associated components. When applied as a complete system, it creates a continuous protective barrier around the external surface.
The wrapping configuration is determined by the component, operating environment and project specification. RSC plans the application around these requirements, including the preparation of the substrate and treatment of complex profiles.
Our tape wrapping capabilities
RSC undertakes external pipe wrapping for new installations, planned maintenance and pipeline rehabilitation.
Applications include:
- Above-ground pipelines and pipework
- Buried pipe sections
- Pipe joints and welded connections
- Flanges and valves
- Bends, tees and other fittings
- Tank bases and pipe supports
- Irregularly shaped metal components
- Localised pipeline repairs
Pipe wrapping services may cover a specific joint or fitting, an affected section of pipeline or a wider corrosion protection programme. Where access or supporting work is required, RSC can coordinate surface preparation, protective coatings, scaffolding or excavation-related interfaces within the project scope.
Petrolatum tape wrapping systems
Petrolatum tape wrapping uses a flexible tape impregnated with a corrosion-inhibiting compound. Its conformability allows the material to follow uneven surfaces and complex components while maintaining close contact with the substrate.
Depending on the specified system and installation conditions, the tape may be used with primers, profiling compounds or an external protective layer. Profiling materials help smooth sharp transitions and fill voids around bolts, flanges and fittings before wrapping begins.
Tape overlaps and application tension are controlled according to the system requirements. Particular attention is given to terminations and changes in pipe geometry, where incomplete coverage could compromise the protective barrier.
Pipeline rehabilitation and localised repairs
Not every pipeline corrosion protection project requires treatment along the full length of the asset. Deterioration may be concentrated around joints, supports, damaged coating areas or sections exposed during inspection and maintenance.
Once the affected area has been made accessible, the existing condition can be assessed and loose material or contaminants removed. The surface is then prepared to the standard required for the specified wrapping system.
For localised repairs, the new system must interface correctly with the surrounding protection. RSC plans these transition areas carefully to create continuous coverage across the repaired section.
Application checks
Before wrapping begins, the pipe surface is checked to confirm that it is ready for application. The preparation required will depend on the condition of the substrate and the specified system.
During installation, checks may cover:
- Surface condition before application
- Coverage of joints, fittings and irregular profiles
- Tape overlap and conformity
- Treatment of transitions and termination points
- Positioning of any specified outer protection
- Overall condition of the completed wrap
Inspection requirements and project records are managed according to the agreed scope.
Plan your pipe corrosion protection
Need to protect new pipework or repair vulnerable areas on an existing pipeline? RSC Group can plan the surface preparation and Pipe wrapping requirements around the pipe configuration, site conditions and specified corrosion protection system.