Fire Proofing

The Challenge of Corrosion Under Fireproofing

In refineries, petrochemical plants, offshore platforms, and power stations, fireproofing is applied to structural steel to delay failure during a fire. However, over time, moisture ingress, environmental exposure, or process leaks can cause corrosion under these layers. Traditional inspection methods require chipping, removal, or core-cutting, which compromises the fire barrier and demands costly repairs or reapplication.

PEC Makes It Possible

PEC sends pulsed electromagnetic fields through the fireproofing layer. These fields penetrate cementitious materials and induce eddy currents in the steel substrate. The decay of these currents is then analyzed to determine wall thickness, corrosion zones, and metal loss patterns, all without surface contact or coating removal.

Industry Data That Matters

A 2023 global survey on refinery maintenance showed that 35% of unplanned structural failures were linked to undetected corrosion under fireproofing. Clients using PEC reported 50% fewer fireproofing breaches during inspection campaigns compared to traditional methods.

Applications

Pipe rack supports

Vertical columns and beams

Skirted pressure vessels

Offshore deck supports

Loading arms and jetty structures

Steel framework in chemical storage areas

Since 2021,

NDT & PWHT Solutions has conducted PEC-based fireproofed structure inspections at over 30 client sites, saving an average of ₹3-5 lakh per

project in repair and re-application costs. Our proven process integrates easily with integrity management systems and digital asset tracking tools.