Thermal Spray Aluminium (TSA)

Thermal Spray Aluminium (TSA) is a coating method where molten aluminium is sprayed onto a prepared steel surface to provide long-term corrosion protection, especially in offshore and high-temperature environments.

Where is TSA applied?

TSA is widely specified in:

• Oil & Gas – offshore risers, flare booms, topside piping.
• Petrochemical & Chemical plants – process vessels, reactors, insulated pipelines.
• Marine & Offshore wind – deck areas, turbine towers, hull details.
• Power generation – boilers, turbines, and high-heat components.

For you as an operator, TSA offers decades of corrosion protection, reducing the need for frequent recoating.

Extra explanation

• How it works:
  • Aluminium wire or powder is melted by an arc or flame.
  • The molten metal is sprayed onto blasted steel, forming a dense, protective coating.

• Advantages:
  • Long lifetime (20–30+ years).
  • High resistance to salt spray and marine environments.
  • Withstands high temperatures.

Standards:

• Often specified under NORSOK M-501.
• Requires Sa 2½ or Sa 3 blasting with a specific micron roughness.

The main challenge: TSA adhesion depends entirely on perfect surface preparation.

Pinovo and TSA preparation

Pinovo supports TSA applications by:

• Delivering Sa 2½ to Sa 3 blast cleanliness.
• Achieving consistent micron roughness for mechanical bonding.
• Operating dust-free critical for TSA adhesion quality.
• Working in ATEX zones where many TSA applications are required.

Pinovo does not apply TSA itself, but ensures steel is blasted to the required quality for long-lasting TSA protection.