Clad construction is one of the most cost-effective ways to get high-alloy corrosion resistance where you need it without paying for a solid alloy vessel. Roben Manufacturing fabricates clad and combination-material vessels that bond a thin corrosion-resistant alloy layer to a strong, economical steel backing, delivering the performance of the alloy at a fraction of the material cost.
The principle is simple: the process side sees the alloy, while the steel carries the pressure load. Executing it well, however, takes real expertise in clad plate, weld overlay, and the welding of dissimilar metals — which is exactly where Roben's fabrication experience pays off.
High-Alloy Performance on an Economical Backing
In a clad vessel, a corrosion-resistant alloy such as stainless steel, a nickel alloy, or another specialty metal is metallurgically bonded to a carbon-steel or low-alloy backing. The alloy layer provides corrosion resistance on the process side, while the thicker steel layer provides the structural strength to contain pressure. Because alloy is used only where it is needed, material cost drops substantially compared with a solid alloy vessel.
There are two main routes to clad construction. Clad plate — produced by roll bonding or explosion bonding — arrives with the two layers already joined and is then formed and welded into the vessel. Weld overlay deposits the corrosion-resistant layer directly onto the steel by welding, which is especially useful for nozzles, flanges, and localized areas. We use the approach that best fits the geometry and service.
The critical work is at the welds and transitions, where the alloy and steel meet. Joints must maintain the integrity of the corrosion-resistant layer across the seam, and dissimilar-metal welds must be executed with the correct filler and technique to avoid dilution that would compromise corrosion resistance. Our qualified procedures address these challenges so the alloy surface remains continuous and protective.
Clad vessels ship with full documentation of both materials, the bond, and the welds. The result is equipment that performs like a high-alloy vessel where it counts while keeping the overall investment in check.
Why Choose Roben Manufacturing
- Alloy performance at lower cost. Clad construction delivers high-alloy corrosion resistance on an economical steel backing, cutting material cost.
- Clad plate and weld overlay capability. We use roll-bonded or explosion-bonded clad plate and weld overlay, choosing the best route for the geometry and service.
- Dissimilar-metal welding expertise. Our qualified procedures keep the corrosion-resistant layer continuous and protective across every joint.
- Localized protection where needed. Weld overlay protects nozzles, flanges, and high-wear areas precisely where corrosion is a concern.
- Full material and bond documentation. Vessels ship with documentation of both materials, the bond, and the welds.
Key Features & Capabilities
- Roll-bonded and explosion-bonded clad plate fabrication
- Weld overlay cladding of shells, nozzles, and flanges
- Corrosion-resistant layer in stainless, nickel alloys, and more
- Carbon and low-alloy steel backing for pressure containment
- Dissimilar-metal welding with controlled dilution
- Continuous corrosion-resistant surface across seams
- Localized overlay for high-wear or high-corrosion zones
- Bond integrity testing and documentation
- Code-compliant design crediting the backing for strength
- Full traceability of both clad and base materials
Applications & Industries Served
- Vessels needing alloy resistance only on the process side
- Reactors and columns in corrosive service
- Nozzle and flange protection via weld overlay
- Cost-driven projects requiring high-alloy performance
- Petrochemical and chemical process equipment
- Equipment combining corrosion resistance with high strength
Codes, Standards & Quality Assurance
Roben Manufacturing fabricates under a controlled quality system and holds the ASME U Certificate of Authorization, with registration through the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. Every applicable project is supported by material test reports, qualified welding procedures, nondestructive examination records, and complete documentation.
Relevant standards and resources include: ASTM International; ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
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