Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) is a thermoset polymer coating applied as a dry powder and fused to a heated metal surface—typically through electrostatic spraying followed by curing at high temperature. In valve applications, FBE is used to protect iron and steel valve bodies and internal surfaces from corrosion, erosion, and chemical attack. Its NSF certification and strong bond to metal make it a go-to solution for municipal infrastructure, pipeline, and industrial water systems.

Properties

  • Outstanding Corrosion Resistance – Forms a dense, adherent barrier that prevents corrosion in wet, buried, or submerged environments.
  • High Adhesion to Substrate – Bonds directly to carbon steel or ductile iron, minimizing underfilm corrosion and coating delamination.
  • Smooth, Low-Friction Surface – Reduces flow resistance and internal buildup in water and slurry service.
  • NSF-61 Approved for Potable Water – Widely accepted for drinking water applications, both externally and internally.
  • Single-Layer Protection – Offers reliable performance with just one uniform coating layer (typically 250–500 microns).

FBE vs. Other Valve Coatings

PropertyFBEPowder CoatingPTFE CoatingRubber Linings
Corrosion ResistanceExcellentGoodExcellentVery Good
Chemical ResistanceModerateModerateOutstandingGood to Excellent
Temperature Limit~120°C~200°C~260°C~90–110°C
Potable Water ApprovalYes (NSF-61)LimitedSome types onlyYes (select grades)
Application TypeInternal/externalMostly externalInternal wetted partsInternal wetted parts

Limitations

  • Temperature Limitations – Maximum continuous service temperature is typically ~80°C to 120°C (176°F to 248°F).
  • Brittle Under Mechanical Impact – Can chip or crack if roughly handled during installation or if not properly applied.
  • Not Ideal for Aggressive Chemicals – Less resistant to strong acids, solvents, or hydrocarbons compared to PTFE or rubber linings.
  • Requires Careful Surface Prep – Steel must be abrasive-blasted and preheated for proper bonding and performance.

Common Applications

Valve Bodies & Bonnets – For gate, butterfly, and check valves in municipal water and wastewater systems.
Disc & Interior Linings – Protect wetted surfaces from corrosion and minimize scale or microbial buildup.
Buried Service Valves – Used in pipeline valves where soil moisture and corrosive backfill pose a risk.
Flanged Ends & Ports – To maintain full interior corrosion protection throughout fluid contact zones.