In the field of pipeline corrosion protection, three-layer polyethylene coating (3LPE coating) has become the internationally recognized standard choice due to its superior protective performance. However, a parameter that is often overlooked yet crucial is coating thickness (3LPE Coating Thickness). It is not merely a production indicator, but a core factor determining the service life, safety, and economic benefits of pipelines in harsh environments. Today, Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipe Group, a leading manufacturer of spiral welded steel pipes and pipeline coating products in China, will delve into this key topic.
Thickness Standards: The "Lifeline" of Corrosion Protection
International and national standards (such as ISO 21809-1, GB/T 23257) have clear and stringent regulations regarding the thickness of 3LPE coatings. These standards specify the technical requirements for factory-applied three-layer extruded polyethylene-based coatings used for corrosion protection of steel pipes and fittings. The coating structure typically includes an epoxy powder underlayer, a polymer adhesive intermediate layer, and a polyethylene outer sheath, and the thickness of each layer must be precisely controlled.
Why is 3LPE Coating Thickness so critical?
Mechanical Protection: Sufficient thickness forms the first physical barrier against scratches, impacts, and rock indentations during transportation, installation, and backfilling. Insufficient thickness easily leads to coating damage, allowing corrosion to begin locally.
Chemical Penetration Resistance: A thicker polyethylene outer layer more effectively blocks the long-term penetration of moisture, salt, chemicals, and microorganisms from the soil, delaying the arrival of corrosive media on the steel pipe surface.
Insulation Performance: For pipelines requiring cathodic protection, coating thickness directly affects its insulation resistance. Uniform and compliant thickness is fundamental to ensuring the efficient and economical operation of the cathodic protection system.
Our Commitment: Precise Control, Guaranteed Every Micrometer
Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipe Group Co., Ltd. deeply understands that precise control of 3LPE coating thickness is the soul of product quality. Since its establishment in 1993, leveraging our modern production base in Cangzhou, Hebei, covering 350,000 square meters, and our strong capabilities with an annual production capacity of 400,000 tons of spiral steel pipes, we have established an integrated precision production system from steel pipe manufacturing to advanced anti-corrosion coating.
On our coating line, we not only ensure that every layer of 3LPE Coating meets the highest standards, but also conduct comprehensive monitoring of the coating thickness of every steel pipe through advanced online monitoring and rigorous offline testing (such as magnetic thickness gauges). We ensure that the coating thickness not only meets the standards but also achieves high uniformity, eliminating weak points, thus truly fulfilling our commitment to providing long-lasting anti-corrosion pipeline solutions for global energy and infrastructure projects.
Conclusion
Choosing pipelines is not only about choosing the strength of the steel, but also the durability of its "outer garment." 3LPE Coating Thickness is the quantitative embodiment of this "outer garment's" protection level. Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipe Group is committed to perfecting this key parameter, ensuring that every meter of pipeline we produce operates safely and stably throughout its long lifespan, providing the longest-lasting value guarantee for our customers' investments.
About Us: Cangzhou Spiral Steel Pipe Group Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of spiral steel pipes and pipe coating products in China. The company has total assets of 680 million yuan, an annual output value of 1.8 billion yuan, and 680 employees. With high-standard production processes and quality control systems, it serves the global energy transmission and infrastructure construction sector.
Post time: Jan-07-2026