What is the Difference Between Lined and Clad Pipes？

The CRA clad (refers to corrosion-resistant alloy) or lined pipe is composed of a conventional carbon steel or low alloy steel pipe and a corrosion-resistant alloy layer. The CRA layer is metallurgically bonded (clad) or mechanically bonded (lined) to the internal or external surface of the steel pipe. The carbon steel or low alloy steel pipe is called base metal (or backing steel); The CRA layer is usually called cladding material or lining. With the increase in technological advance, lined and clad materials are getting popular in Process industries. By combining two materials, we can get the advantage of the two materials at a low cost.

This is especially economical and favorable for large-diameter heavy pipelines since the relatively much thinner CRA layer not only retains enhanced corrosion-resistant properties but also reduces the cost to the minimum. The CRA clad or lined steel pipes are widely used in pipeline transportation systems in the petroleum and natural gas industries. They are also extensively used for marine applications, chemical plant, and power plant, etc.

Ø Lined pipe has a Mechanical bonding between pipe and line material

· By applying a lined material to carbon steel pipe, we can get the benefit of anti-corrosion property of lined material and strength of carbon steel

· Commonly used lined material are PTFE, Rubber, Glass, FRP (Fiber reinforced plastic)

Ø Clad pipe has a Metallurgical bond between pipe and cladding material

· The cladding is done by an explosive bonding process or by welding of clad material on a pipe

· High strength carbon steel materials are cladded with high corrosion resistant metal to achieve cost benefits