Plastics in offshore and marine environments
At PlastShop.se, we frequently work with customers in the offshore and marine industries. Their requirements often centre on materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of salt water and UV exposure. A question that often arises is: Which plastics are best suited to these environments?
Saltwater resistance
When it comes to saltwater resistance, it is important to choose a material that can withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater. PE-1000 is a good choice, as it is highly resistant to salt water. PA is also a plastic commonly used in offshore and marine environments, and it likewise offers good salt water resistance.
One challenge is that the materials must withstand constant exposure to salt water without degrading. This is where PE-1000 and PA come into the picture, as both have a long service life and can withstand the harsh conditions.
UV exposure
Another challenge in offshore and marine environments is UV exposure. The sun’s rays can cause materials to degrade and lose their strength. PVDF has extremely good UV resistance and can withstand high levels of UV radiation.
Applications and benefits
There are many uses for plastics in offshore and marine environments. A common example is fender pads, which protect ships and boats from damage. PE-1000 is often used for this purpose. Bearing bushings are another application. PA and PVDF are frequently used here.
- Fender pads
- Bearing bushings
- Pipe components
- Pipe systems
Why choose plastic over metal? Plastics corrode much less than metals. They are also lighter, which is an advantage where weight is a consideration. Furthermore, plastics are more flexible and less prone to cracking.
If you have any questions about which plastic is best suited to your application, please do not hesitate to contact us. We have the expertise to guide you towards the right choice of material. Read more about our materials and contact us for further information.
Plastic in Offshore and Marine Environments