Korrosion unter Isolierung (CUI)

Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) is a hidden type of corrosion that develops when moisture becomes trapped underneath insulation materials on steel pipes, vessels, or equipment. Because it is concealed, CUI often goes undetected until severe damage occurs.

Where does CUI occur?

CUI is a major problem in industries where insulated assets operate under fluctuating temperatures:

• Oil & Gas – insulated pipelines, heat exchangers and process units.
• Petrochemical & Chemical plants – reactors and vessels with hot/cold cycles.
• Offshore & Marine – insulated pipes and tanks exposed to humid, salty air.
• Power generation – steam lines, turbines and boilers.

For you as an asset owner, CUI means unexpected leaks, reduced equipment lifespan and costly shutdowns if not addressed proactively.

Extra explanation and challenges

• Cause: water ingress through damaged insulation or cladding.
• Risks: accelerated corrosion due to trapped moisture and lack of visibility.
• Detection: difficult, requiring inspections and removal of insulation.

Traditional open blasting for CUI repair creates additional risks (dust, debris, scaffolding requirements).

Pinovo’s solution:

• PiPoint™ – enables targeted spot blasting directly on CUI-affected areas.
• PiHab™ – flexible enclosure for rope access or confined spaces.
• Dust-free operation – eliminates health, safety and environmental risks while exposing and cleaning affected steel.

Do you want to manage CUI safely and without major downtime?
Request a demo or training to see how Pinovo helps solve CUI challenges.