Power plant corrosion

Power plants are usually located near water and many are in salt water environments. Environmental corrosion and corrosion occurring on the seacoast is quickly becoming a problem that is often solved with thermal spray coatings. The authors have been asked by several power companies to help develop their capability to apply these coatings. This paper will review corrosion applications at different power plants including main cooling pumps, condenser covers, cooling towers, process piping, pipe supports and associated hardware. Further discussion of specific applications, process qualification, equipment and materials used, the training and certification of applicators will also be incorporated into this discussion. The recommendations will include a guide to selection of the coating materials and thermal spray process for corrosion in power plants.