After experiencing a problem on
one of their offshore rigs, a
major oil company requested that
Tyco initiate a research program
to develop better corrosion protection
for offshore gage glass. To assess
the relative strengths and
weaknesses of various coatings and
materials commonly used as
“offshore protection,” we subjected a
number of our own gages as well as
competitive models to an accelerated
corrosion/weathering test (ASTM
B117). While the tests were
performed in a controlled laboratory
environment, the exposure to over
2500 hours of heat and salt spray
provided a corrosive environment that
was judged to be comparable to two
years of actual offshore use.

As a result of these tests, Tyco
has developed a unique three-part
coating, applied to the components
before the gage is assembled, to
provide unprecedented gage
protection in offshore application.
The Penberthy gage also includes a
variety of unique design features to
further extend gage life.

Competitive comparison shows the need for concern in selecting a gage with "offshore" design

As important as coatings are in making
a gage corrosion-resistant, their value
can be rendered useless if the glass is
left vulnerable to other types of
damage. The total protection of gage
glass is critical in complementing the
effectiveness of offshore coatings.

The Penberthy offshore gage design is
unique in its ability to completely
isolate the gage glass from abrasive
forces. This complete protection is
important because even seemingly
minor abrasions can cause the
tempered gage glass to lose most
of its pressure containing ability.

The following diagrams illustrate the
relative vulnerability of the glass on
competitive models.

Exposed Glass

Other U.S. Manufacturer

Exposed Glass

European Manufacturer

Exposed Glass

Japanese Manufacturer

Exposed Glass

Latin American Manufacturer