A proactive approach to controlling CUI in harsh industrial environments
In the oil & gas and heavy industrial sectors, Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) remains one of the most critical yet difficult-to-detect threats to the integrity and service life of piping systems and equipment operating under insulated conditions.
Because CUI develops beneath the insulation layer, it often goes unnoticed until severe degradation has already occurred, leading to:
- Pipe leaks and asset failure
- Unplanned shutdowns and production losses
- Increased maintenance costs and safety risks
As a result, external protection of insulation systems has become a key element in long-term asset integrity management strategies.
Limitations of traditional metal cladding in CUI mitigation
Metal cladding has been widely used for decades to protect insulation systems. However, under real operating conditions, especially in aggressive environments, this solution presents several limitations:
- Susceptibility to corrosion in marine and chemical environments
- High weight, adding load to pipe racks and support structures
- Vulnerable joints and overlaps that allow water ingress
- High inspection, maintenance, and replacement costs over time
These challenges have driven the industry to seek more durable and corrosion-resistant alternatives.
FibaClad – GRP insulation cladding engineered to mitigate CUI
FibaClad is a Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) insulation cladding system developed by FTI, specifically designed to address the root causes of CUI.
The system is engineered to:
- Prevent water and moisture ingress into insulation
- Minimize the risk of corrosion under insulation
- Enhance mechanical durability and operational lifespan
- Suit both onshore and offshore applications
- Enable fast installation and reduce long-term maintenance costs
By combining lightweight construction with high mechanical strength, FibaClad delivers reliable protection in demanding industrial environments.
Technical advantages of FibaClad over metal cladding
Compared to traditional metal cladding, FibaClad offers clear performance advantages:
- Significantly lower weight, reducing structural loads
- Inherent corrosion resistance, ideal for marine and offshore conditions
- Excellent UV and chemical resistance
- High system tightness, minimizing water ingress pathways
- Extended service life, lowering life-cycle costs
These characteristics make FibaClad particularly suitable for assets requiring long-term reliability with minimal intervention.
Proven applications across global industrial projects
FibaClad has been successfully implemented in a wide range of industrial projects worldwide, including:
- LNG facilities
- FPSOs and offshore platforms
- Petrochemical and refinery plants
- Industrial piping and process equipment
Its ability to withstand harsh environments while protecting insulation systems positions FibaClad as a preventive CUI mitigation solution, rather than a reactive repair measure.
Conclusion
As maintenance costs rise and asset reliability becomes increasingly critical, effective CUI mitigation is no longer optional for insulated piping and equipment.
Transitioning from conventional metal cladding to GRP insulation cladding systems such as FibaClad represents a strategic decision that helps asset owners: Extend asset service life, Reduce total life-cycle costs (LCC), Improve operational safety and reliability
Learn more about the FibaClad GRP insulation cladding system HERE.