Understanding the Importance of Proper Wrap Solutions

Choosing the correct anti‑corrosive wrap for pipelines, structural steel, or buried infrastructure is critical. With the right solution you extend asset life, reduce maintenance cost and avoid unexpected failures. WQ Trade manufactures and supplies their own petrolatum‑based tape known as PACTape which is designed for this purpose. 

Key Criteria for Selecting a Wrap Solution

1. Environment and Exposure Conditions

Assess the environment in which the pipeline or steel member operates. Is it underground, above ground, exposed to salts, chemicals, or UV radiation? The wrap solution needs to be rated accordingly.

2. Substrate and Surface Preparation

The tape or wrap cannot perform if the surface is poorly prepared. You must remove rust, scale, coatings, and ensure dry substrate. PACTape performs best when applied to a clean metal surface.

3. Tape Specifications and Performance

Check the technical specifications: adhesion strength, film thickness, resistance to peeling or impact, temperature range, and compatibility with outer protection layers. WQ Trade’s PACTape system is engineered to meet these performance requirements.

4. Application Method and Wrap Integrity

The way the wrap is applied affects the outcome. Overlap, tension, reinforcement at joints, and outer mechanical protection all matter for long‑term durability.

5. Maintenance, Inspection and Life‑Cycle Cost

A good wrap solution will reduce inspection frequency, repair interventions, and overall total cost of ownership. When you factor in lifecycle cost, investing in a higher‑quality tape like PACTape makes sense.

Why WQ Trade’s PACTape Stands Out

• Locally manufactured in South Africa and meets international standards
• Backed by decades of experience in the protective packaging and infrastructure markets.
• Combined product and service offering: they don’t just supply tape, they assist with specification, delivery and support across Southern Africa.
• Comprehensive range of sizes, widths and formulations allows you to match the wrap to the specific asset and exposure.

Typical Applications for Anti‑Corrosive Wrap Systems

• Buried or above‑ground steel pipelines carrying water, gas or petrochemicals
• Structural steelwork in coastal or industrial zones subject to corrosion
• Valves, flanges and weld areas which are high‑risk for exposure
• Utility cables, ducting and infrastructure in corrosive environments

Best Practice Checklist Before You Apply

• Confirm the tape specification meets the project requirements
• Inspect and document the existing substrate condition
• Clean the surface to remove rust, paint, oil and moisture
• Apply the wrap with correct overlap and tension
• Apply outer protection layer if required (PVC overwrap or mesh)
• Record the installation and schedule periodic inspections

WQ Trade Your Partner for Reliable Infrastructure Protection

WQ Trade offers more than just product supply. They combine local manufacturing of PACTape, technical support, fast turnaround and regional delivery across Southern Africa. From specification to application and maintenance they ensure your infrastructure is protected.

“Select the right system, apply correctly, and protect your assets for the long term.”