Guide to Equipment Materials

Are you looking to purchase chemical processing equipment for a manufacturing plant or another facility? Buying used machinery can provide substantial cost savings without sacrificing performance or quality. 

While price is often a primary factor when evaluating used equipment, it’s not the only consideration. One important area is the equipment’s material, which can impact performance and your operating processes in many ways.

Louisiana Chemical Equipment Company is a leading buyer and seller of used chemical processing equipment, such as mixers, motors, centrifuges and compressors. We’ve prepared this comprehensive guide to equipment materials to help you make more informed purchasing decisions. 

What Are the Core Factors for Chemical Processing Equipment Material Selection?

Things to consider when assessing equipment materials include:

• Corrosion and chemical resistance: Different chemicals can react in various ways with the equipment’s material. Before you buy, it’s essential to determine whether the material is compatible with the intended processing application to minimize or eliminate the risk of degradation. 
• Cost and economic life cycle: Choosing equipment made from durable materials can generate higher initial costs for the buyer. However, it can result in lower long-term operating expenses due to reduced maintenance and repair needs.
• Expected lifespan: Some materials last longer than others. A product that lasts 15 years or more can be more cost-effective than one that requires more frequent replacement. 

Overview of Common Chemical Equipment Materials

The most common types of materials used to manufacture chemical processing equipment include:

• Iron and carbon steel: This is the most cost-effective option for non-corrosive environments. Steel chemical equipment offers high mechanical strength and is easily fabricated. However, the machinery often requires the installation of protective linings to reduce the risk of corrosion.  
• Stainless steel and alloys: Stainless steel is a preferred choice for general chemical processing applications. It offers excellent rust resistance and hygienic properties, helping prevent contamination.
• Titanium: This lightweight yet sturdy metal offers a high strength-to-weight ratio and reliable resistance to chloride and other chemical attacks. Potential drawbacks include its elevated cost and limited weldability.
• Copper and nickel alloys: Copper offers superior thermal conductivity, making it ideal for heat exchangers. Nickel alloys can resist many non-oxidizing acids but are more expensive than many other metals. 
• Fluoropolymers and fiber-reinforced plastic: These plastic materials offer reliable chemical resistance at a low price point. However, they have strict temperature and pressure limitations compared to metals.
• Glass-lined steel: Many industry professionals consider this to be the best material for chemical equipment. It combines the structural strength of steel with the chemical inertness of borosilicate glass, making it an excellent choice for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. However, glass-lined steel should be avoided in applications exposed to thermal or mechanical shock. 

LCEC Is a Trustworthy Chemical Equipment Partner

Choosing the right material is a complex but critical decision. If you are looking for equipment that meets your specific chemical processing needs, the team at Louisiana Chemical Equipment Company has the expertise to help you make an informed purchasing decision. Contact us to discuss your project requirements today.