[ Cover Story ]
[ Cover Story ]
Tailor-made carbon steel carrier pipes The performance of a mechanically lined system depends not only on the liner, but also on the carrier pipe. EBK applies advanced forming and calibration techniques to achieve exceptionally tight dimensional tolerances:
• Diameter tolerances of ± 0.5 mm.
• Ovality is typically controlled within 0.5 – 2.0 mm.
“ Such precision is critical,” explains Bulut Gün.“ When inserting a liner into a carrier pipe prior to rolling, dimensional accuracy directly influences bond uniformity and final gripping force. EBK has invested extensively in cold calibration processes that avoid machining operations, which could compromise material integrity. Pipes are brought into roundness without excessive mechanical working.” Mechanical properties of the carbon steel carrier can be tailored for:
• High fracture toughness.
• Low-temperature service.
• Sour service compliance.
Compared with metallurgically clad pipes, where heat input during rolling, welding, and cladding can influence mechanical behaviour, the RollClad ® system allows greater flexibility in independently optimising carrier pipe properties. Bulut continues:“ For pipeline installers, dimensional precision translates into improved field efficiency. The consistent tolerances facilitate welding alignment and reduce installation delays, providing tangible, project-level advantages.”
Market reception and industry perception Market response to RollClad ® MLP has been strongly positive, explains Iris.“ End users, engineering houses,
Weld preparation before weld overlay, with a maximum 0.05 mm gap between the liner and outer pipe.
Details of testing showing the mechanical bonding values achieved with MLP.
and EPC contractors familiar with conventional MLP solutions immediately recognise the significance of higher bond strength and improved bending behaviour. During qualification programmes, EBK has conducted and documented full-scale bending tests to demonstrate performance claims.”“ Our customers frequently comment not only on the technical merits of the product, but also on the engineering sophistication of the production equipment. The rolling machinery has been designed with robust safety systems and process control features, ensuring repeatability and traceability. Observers have described it as one of the most advanced systems in the sector.”“ RollClad ® is often characterised by clients as‘ close to metallurgical clad’ in performance, while retaining the economic and manufacturing advantages of mechanical lining. This positioning- bridging the gap between conventional MLP and metallurgical cladding- is strategically important in a market increasingly focused on cost efficiency without compromising reliability.”
A differentiated approach EBK’ s development of RollClad ® reflects a broader corporate philosophy: challenging established manufacturing norms rather than simply refining them. By moving away from hydraulic expansion towards controlled mechanical rolling, the company has redefined the achievable bond strength in mechanically lined pipes. Combined with large-diameter capability, tailored carrier pipe properties, precision dimensional control, and CRA flexibility, the technology represents a comprehensive system innovation rather than a single process improvement. Within the global clad pipe market, this approach has strengthened EBK’ s competitive position. Supported by Jiuli’ s financial strength and R & D infrastructure, the company has transitioned from postpandemic crisis to sustained growth and technical leadership within a remarkably short timeframe.
Outlook“ As offshore developments push into deeper waters, higher pressures, and more aggressive production environments, demand for reliable corrosion-resistant pipeline systems will continue to increase. Cost pressures remain intense, particularly in largediameter projects. Technologies that combine metallurgical-level performance with mechanical lining economics are therefore well positioned,” concludes Scott. With continued investment in capacity, personnel, and R & D, EBK appears prepared to capitalise on this trend. RollClad ® MLP is no longer an experimental concept but an industrially validated product; one that challenges long-standing assumptions about the limits of mechanically bonded systems. For a stainless steel and corrosionresistant alloy community that values measurable performance, tight tolerances, and demonstrable test data, this evolution represents a noteworthy development in the clad pipe sector.
www. stainless-steel-world. net Stainless Steel World May 2026 11