Rotational Lining
We rotationally line (rotoline) tanks, scrubbers, pipes, pipe fittings, pumps, valves, flowmeters, filter housings, heat exchangers, and other process equipment. Using this lining technique, we are able to create complex shapes and internal geometries that are easily lined without access to internal surfaces.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Rotational Lining
| Advantages of Rotational Lining | Disadvantages of Rotational Lining |
|---|---|
| Seamless liners eliminate failure prone weld joints | Some internal components, such as large baffles, are difficult to line |
| High structural integrity of the part is maintained | Rotational lining is a shop process, which means the liner cannot be installed in the field |
| Easy to seal flanges with reduced risk of leak in operation | The size of equipment that can be lined is limited to the dimensions of the rotational lining oven |
| Vast range of liner choices can be melt-flow processed including nylons, olefins, and fluoropolymers | |
| Fully bonded liner can withstand vacuum and eliminate annular space for permeation to collect and condense | |
| Operating temperatures allowed through the full temperature range of the chosen thermoplastic liner | |
| The liner can only be applied to a wide range of metallic substrates |
Rotational Lining Process
Rotational lining applies a layer of thermoplastic material onto the interior surface of a vessel, creating a mechanically bonded liner.
Step 1
The first step of the process is to prepare the interior surface of the vessel to white metal. Next, the vessel is mounted to a multi-axis rotational lining machine. Thermoplastic resin is placed inside the vessel.
Step 2
The vessel is rotated inside of an oven. As the vessel rotates, the polymer becomes molten and forms an even layer across all internal surfaces creating seamless liners.
Step 3
The vessel then goes through a cooling process to set the liner in place.
Step 4
The caps are removed from the ends of the vessel. Flange faces are machined to provide a smooth sealing surface. Liner integrity is then validated using ultrasonic thickness gauges and spark testing. Lastly, paint is applied to the exterior of the vessel (optional).
Rotational Lining Materials
We use a variety of thermoplastic polymers that provide corrosion resistance. Below are the materials we use. Contact us to discuss what material is the best solution for your project.
| wdt_ID | Material | Application | Maximum Service Temperature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PFA | High purity tanks, chemical resistance, high temperature, low extractables | 500°F /260°C | PFA |
| 2 | ETFE | Chemical resistance, corrosion protection, excellent adhesion, full vacuum rating | 302°F/150°C | ETFE |
| 4 | PVDF RMB 11008-3001 | Chemical resistance, corrosion protection, lower cost than PFA, colors available | 260°F /127°C | PVDF |
| 5 | RMB HDPE Lining Grade | Chemical resistance and adhesion suitable for linings in pipes, fittings, vessels and irregularly shaped parts | 180° F / 82° C | HDPE |
| 6 | RMB BIO-ARMOR™ (HDPE with antimicrobial blend) | Chemical resistance and adhesion suitable for linings in pipes, fittings, vessels and irregularly shaped parts. Provides antifouling and MIC resistance | 180° F / 82°C | RMB BIO-ARMOR™ |
| Material | Application | Maximum Service Temperature |
