Case study of HPCL Visakhapatnam – Corrosion Inhibiting Admixture

HPCL Visakhapatnam Background & Challenge:

The HPCL Visakhapatnam Refinery, with a capacity of 8.3 MMTPA, has undergone significant upgrades to produce BS-VI compliant transportation fuels. 

The harsh environment in Andhra Pradesh posed a considerable threat to the integrity of the concrete structures at the Visakhapatnam refinery project

High salinity levels increased the risk of corrosion, jeopardizing the structural stability and longevity of the facility.

Given the aggressive marine conditions and high salinity levels of the nearby port, protecting concrete structures becomes imperative to ensure the longevity and durability of the industrial infrastructure.

Solution for HPCL Visakhapatnam project:

To mitigate the corrosive impact of the environment, contractors turned to Sunanda Global’s bipolar concrete penetrating corrosion inhibiting admixture

This innovative solution forms a uni-molecular protective layer on the steel surface, providing simultaneous cathodic and anodic protection. 

The high penetrating power of the admixture ensures total protection of rebars or PT tendons, making it a perfect selection for structures facing corrosive environments.

Advantages:

The use of Sunanda Global’s bipolar concrete penetrating corrosion inhibiting admixture provided several advantages:

Simultaneous Cathodic and Anodic Protection: The admixture ensures comprehensive protection of steel structures.

High Penetrating Power: This feature guarantees total protection of rebars or PT tendons, which is crucial for the long-term integrity of the structures.

No Adverse Effects on Concrete Properties: The admixture does not compromise the properties of hardened concrete or grout, ensuring structural integrity.

Effective in High Chloride Environments: The solution demonstrated its efficacy even in the presence of elevated chloride levels, a common challenge in marine environments.

Eco-Friendly: The admixture aligns with environmental sustainability goals.

Nitrite and Chromate-Free: The absence of these harmful elements further underscores the eco-friendly nature of the admixture.

High Alkalinity: The inherent high alkalinity offers additional protection to steel, enhancing the overall durability of the structures.

Implementation at HPCL CWTP-VRMP Visakhapatnam Refinery Project:

In the context of the Visakhapatnam refinery project, Sunanda Global’s bipolar concrete penetrating corrosion inhibiting admixture played a pivotal role in fortifying the concrete structures against the corrosive challenges of the marine environment. 

The contractors seamlessly incorporated the admixture into the concrete mix, offering reliable protection to the rebars and PT tendons crucial for the refinery’s structural stability.

The application process was efficient and flexible, with compatibility in both ready-mix trucks at the concrete plant and on-site. 

Notably, Sunanda Global’s admixture demonstrated its effectiveness even in the presence of high amounts of chlorides, a crucial factor in the aggressive marine environment.

Results and Impact:

The successful implementation of Sunanda Global’s admixture at the HPCL CWTP-VRMP Visakhapatnam refinery project resulted in extended service life for the concrete structures. 

The structures, including piers, piles, and concrete dock structures, benefited from the comprehensive corrosion protection, ensuring the refinery’s long-term operational resilience.

Environmental Friendly:

Sunanda Global’s bipolar concrete penetrating corrosion inhibiting admixture used in the HPCL CWTP-VRMP Visakhapatnam refinery project is environmentally friendly and safe. 

Its composition aligns with sustainability standards, emphasizing its safety for broader environmental considerations.

Conclusion:

In the relentless pursuit of industrial progress, safeguarding infrastructure from environmental threats is non-negotiable. 

By choosing an innovative and environmentally friendly solution, the project not only ensured the structural integrity of its facilities but also demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices. 

As industries continue to evolve, solutions like Sunanda Global’s admixture will play a pivotal role in fortifying structures against the corrosive challenges of their respective environments.