NITROCLEAN FOR
ENERGY, NUCLEAR & OFFSHORE
STAINLESS STEEL FOR NUCLEAR
Stainless steel is used extensively in the construction of reactors, storage facilities, and other critical infrastructure in the nuclear industry. Maintaining cleanliness of these stainless steel components is of paramount importance to ensure the safe and efficient operation of nuclear facilities.
NitroClean stainless steel cleaning products play a crucial role in the electrolytic cleaning process, an essential step in the maintenance and upkeep of stainless steel components.
Essential for safety:
In the nuclear industry, where the slightest imperfection or contamination can have serious consequences, electrolytic cleaning is an essential step in the maintenance and upkeep of stainless steel components. By keeping these surfaces clean and free of impurities, the risk of corrosion, pitting and other forms of degradation is significantly reduces, enhancing safety and reliability of nuclear facilities.
Nuclear decomissioning:
Cleaning and passivation of stainless steel is particularly important in the nuclear decommissioning industry as the improved corrosion resistance which is achieved by passivation is crucial in assuring the performance of the material once it’s in service.
BENEFITS RESULTING FROM THIS
1. Electrolytic cleaning
Initially, due to the improved microscopic surface texture and the reduction in total surface area, electrolytic cleaning is effective in reducing the buildup of radioactive contaminates and eases decontamination.
2. Passivation
In addition to this, because the surface of the stainless is re-passivated with electrolytic cleaning, this means that the chromium is drawn to the surface which restores a protective layer post-welding, known as the passive layer. This is imperative to prevent corrosion and rust in the future, for safe and secure nuclear disposal.
WHY USE ELECTROLYTIC WELD CLEANING OVER PICKLING SPRAY?
The electrolytic weld cleaning technique utilises an electric current to remove surface contaminants and oxides, leaving a clean, uniform finish on welds.
Unlike pickling spray, which can be hazardous and environmentally damaging, electrolytic cleaning is a safe, eco-friendly process that produces high-quality results. By adopting this method, nuclear facilities can ensure the integrity and reliability of their critical infrastructure, while minimising the risks associated with traditional cleaning methods.
The precision and efficiency of electrolytic weld cleaning make it an essential tool for maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance in the nuclear industry.
Offshore:
Passivation of stainless steel is crucial in offshore applications due to the harsh marine environment, which is characterized by high salinity, humidity, and the presence of corrosive elements.
This chemical process draws the chromium layer to the steel surface, significantly improving its corrosion resistance.
By preventing the formation of rust and pitting, passivation ensures the longevity and reliability of stainless steel components, reducing maintenance costs and the risk of structural failures.
This protection is essential for the safety and efficiency of offshore structures, such as oil rigs and wind turbines, which are constantly exposed to aggressive seawater conditions.
