Coatings for Directional Drill vs Standard Sleeves

 Directional Drill vs Standard Pipelines

In the pipeline industry, effective corrosion protection and mechanical durability are essential—especially when comparing coatings for standard trench applications versus trenchless installations like Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD). Two leading product lines in this domain, Powercrete and Covalence, offer specialized coatings tailored to these varying demands.

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Overview of Powercrete and Covalence Coating Systems

Powercrete (by Seal For Life)

Powercrete is a family of 100% solids, epoxy-based coatings known for their abrasion resistance, high compressive strength, and exceptional adhesion to steel and existing coatings (like FBE). Powercrete products are often used as repair systems, field joint coatings, and ARO (Abrasion Resistant Overcoat) in HDD applications.

Key Products:

• Powercrete R65/F1:  Fast curing epoxy that is ideal for field joints and small-diameter pipelines.

• Powercrete R95: High build epoxy that is also rated or elevated temperatures.

• Powercrete J: The original road bore epoxy that is still fantastic.

Covalence (by Seal for Life / formerly Raychem)

Covalence produces heat-shrinkable sleeves and wraparound systems used for corrosion protection and mechanical support in both standard and HDD environments. These products are known for their easy field application, good adhesion, and chemical resistance.

Covalence DIRAX is the only Covalence product that is specifically designed to coat field joints on directional drilling applications.

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Covalence in Both Applications

Directional Drilling (HDD):

• Covalence DIRAX sleeve system includes:

  • A high-shear hot-melt adhesive, a radiation cross-linked backing, and an abrasion-resistant topcoat.

  • Designed to resist peeling and gouging during HDD pullback.

  • Offers fast field application using a torch and does not require curing time like epoxy.

Standard Applications:

• HTLP60/80 sleeves are cost-effective, reliable systems for pipelines buried in consistent soil conditions.

• WPC sleeves (Wraparound Pipe Coating) are often used for rehabilitation or protection of welds in less aggressive environments.

The right coating system can dramatically extend the lifespan and integrity of a pipeline—especially when factoring in the extreme mechanical stresses of HDD. Powercrete epoxy coatings excel where abrasion, gouge, and compressive forces dominate, while Covalence systems offer efficient, high-performance alternatives—particularly in field-applied sleeve configurations.

By aligning coating selection with application type, environmental conditions, and project complexity, operators can ensure the durability and efficiency of their pipeline systems with confidence.