Corrosion Assessment

Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance

 

As a part of any comprehensive fire sprinkler system corrosion assessment program, ECS uses a video scope and pipe sample analysis to collect evidence of corrosion activity inside the system. Inspecting the fire sprinkler system piping with this method enables us to paint an accurate picture of your corrosion and develop a comprehensive action plan for how to address and prevent it in the future. 

Internal video inspections, combined with pipe metal loss analysis, is the most effective way to investigate pipe corrosion in fire sprinkler systems, as other, non-destructive methods have limitations in capturing data. This is due to the highly localized nature of corrosion, which can only be accurately captured through direct visual inspection and metal loss analysis.

Historically, a combination of a corrosion assessment , surgical pipe replacement, and a long-term corrosion control program has saved our clients up to 80% of the cost of a total system replacement—all while eliminating existing leaks and mitigating future risk.

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What to expect during a corrosion assessment

On-Site Assessment

During the assessment, you can expect our expert engineers to conduct a thorough evaluation of your system. We partner with your local fire sprinkler contractor to collect data through a site survey,
video scoping, and pipe sample metal loss analysis.

Detailed Report

Once the on-site work is complete, we will provide you with a detailed report of our findings. Our report includes a summary of our on-site observations, recommendations for remediation of
existing issues, and mitigation of future issues.

Customized Solution

If there's corrosion within your system, ECS will work with you to find a solution that fits with your long-term strategy. We understand that each building with a fire sprinkler system has unique needs and concerns, so we’ll ensure that we find the right solution for you!

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Frequently asked questions

What is corrosion assessment?

A Corrosion Assessment is the process of evaluating the corrosion status of a system or structure to identify potential corrosion problems that could lead to equipment failure or safety hazards. It is absolutely crucial to have the appropriate tools in place in order to guarantee the continued safety of a given location.

At ECS, we have a team of experts who are highly skilled in conducting corrosion assessments. Our professionals are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to evaluate the corrosion status of your system, and you can trust us to provide you with unparalleled service and accurate results. 

I don't see any leaks. Why is this necessary?

Corrosion can occur without out any external visible signs. It's a gradual, natural process that starts internally and can remain undetected until leaks develop and corrective action must be taken.

If corrosion causes a sprinkler system to fail, it can result in equipment damage, downtime, and profitability losses. Most importantly, it can put people at risk in the event of a fire.

How does corrosion start?

Corrosion starts when oxygen and moisture come into contact with metal. This process is called oxidation. When metal oxidizes, it weakens, and over time, this weakening can lead to safety hazards or equipment failure.

That’s why it's important to be proactive about corrosion assessment – the consequences of equipment failure or safety hazards can be severe.

My sprinkler has a leak problem and it’s getting worse. What should I do?
Because sprinkler system leaks are often caused by oxygen, once leaks begin, they won’t stop. At this point, action needs to be taken to avoid a significant impact to your operating budget from continued leak repairs.

Performing a Corrosion Risk Assessment will give you the data and insight you need to be able to implement the most cost-efficient remediation and prevention strategy possible. During many past projects, ECS has been able to recommend a strategy that avoids significant pipe replacement and saves the client up to 90% compared to the next best alternative.
I’m considering replacing my entire system with new pipe. Is this necessary?
Because the driving elements of corrosion are not evenly distributed inside the sprinkler system, corrosion is often very localized. This means that even if pipe replacement is required to eliminate leak risk, it is often only required on small portions of the sprinkler system.
 
Use a comprehensive Corrosion Risk Assessment to understand the severity of your corrosion, where it is located, and what actions are required to eliminate leak risk. In many cases, using the information provided in a Corrosion Risk Assessment will allow you to implement a solution to eliminate leak risk for up to 90% less than the next best alternative.

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