Tapes vs. Hot Enamels: Choosing a Bituminous Pipe Coating

Both can use gilsonite to improve hardness and adhesion.

When to choose hot enamel

• Long pipeline sections coated in a plant
• Thick, reinforced coatings needed
• Experienced crew and equipment available

When to choose tape

• Field repairs and joints
• Bends, fittings and short sections
• Limited equipment on site

Cost considerations

Enamel has lower material cost per square metre at large scale; tape has lower equipment cost and faster training.

Performance factors

Both systems depend on surface preparation, primer quality and correct application.

See pipe coating grade gilsonite and pipe wrapping tapes.