Zirconium-lined equipment is commonly used in the chlor alkali industry due to its excellent corrosion resistance to strong alkaline solutions such as caustic soda (NaOH). Zirconium is a highly resistant metal that forms a stable and protective oxide layer when exposed to oxygen, which provides effective protection against corrosion. Zirconium-lined equipment such as tanks, vessels, and pipes are commonly used in the production, storage, and transportation of caustic soda in chlor alkali plants. Zirconium-lined equipment is also used in the production of other chemicals such as chlorine gas and hydrogen gas.
Zirconium-lined vessels are typically made of carbon steel or stainless steel and lined with a layer of zirconium using a welding process. The thickness of the zirconium layer can vary depending on the application and the concentration of the corrosive media. Zirconium-lined vessels can also be coated with a layer of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) to enhance their non-stick properties and prevent buildup of corrosive products.
Zirconium-lined vessels are designed and manufactured according to various industry standards and codes, including ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), and DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung).
Zirconium-lined equipment used in chlor alkali industry typically has a lining thickness ranging from 1.5 to 3 mm. The zirconium lining is typically applied using a hot isostatic pressing (HIP) process to ensure good bonding between the zirconium and the base metal.
In terms of specifications, zirconium-lined equipment should meet industry standards such as ASTM B352 and ASTM B653 for zirconium and zirconium alloy sheets and plates, and ASTM B493 for zirconium and zirconium alloy welding wire. The lining material should also have a minimum zirconium content of 99.5% and be free from any harmful impurities.
The equipment design should also consider factors such as the corrosive nature of the process fluid, the operating temperature and pressure, and any mechanical stresses that the equipment may experience during operation. The design should also include appropriate measures for sealing and gasketing to prevent any leaks or failures.
Zirconium is a lustrous, grayish-white, strong, ductile, and malleable metal that belongs to the group of refractory metals. It has a low neutron absorption cross-section, good corrosion resistance, and high-temperature resistance. Here are some key material properties of zirconium:
Zirconium-lined tanks are typically lined using a process called hot isostatic pressing (HIP), which involves applying high pressure and temperature to fuse the zirconium layer onto the tank surface. This ensures a strong and durable lining that can withstand the harsh conditions of the chlor alkali process.
Zirconium lined reactors are typically lined with a layer of zirconium metal or zirconium alloys such as zirconium-niobium or zirconium-titanium, which provide superior corrosion resistance compared to other materials. Zirconium lined reactors can be used in the production of chemicals such as sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas, as well as in the petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Zirconium-lined pipes are typically made of a base metal such as carbon steel or stainless steel and are lined with a layer of zirconium to protect against corrosion. The zirconium lining can be applied using various methods such as explosive bonding, roll bonding, or welding. Zirconium-lined pipes are used for transporting corrosive fluids and gases in chlor alkali plants.
The zirconium lining helps prevent corrosion and extends the life of the heat exchanger. These heat exchangers are also resistant to cracking and have a high heat transfer efficiency. Zirconium-lined heat exchangers can be used for heating or cooling caustic soda solutions, as well as for condensing or evaporating steam
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