In pipeline coating work, surface preparation forms the foundation on which the entire protective system depends. Among the required steps, SSPC-SP 1 solvent cleaning is often underestimated or treated as a routine task rather than a critical control point. For corrosion field technicians and coating inspectors, proper execution of SSPC-SP 1 is essential. It is not simply a preliminary wipe before blasting or power tool cleaning, but a required process that directly influences long term coating performance.

SSPC-SP 1 requires the removal of oil, grease, dirt, salts, and other soluble contaminants before any mechanical surface preparation begins. When this step is performed incorrectly or inadequately verified, contamination can remain trapped beneath the coating system and lead to premature failure. These failures often appear long after project completion, resulting in costly repairs, operational disruption, and potential integrity concerns. This article explains the purpose of SSPC-SP 1, its role in the surface preparation process, effective verification methods, and practical field guidance to ensure consistent results.

SSPC-SP 1 is a standard published by the Society for Protective Coatings that defines the procedure for solvent cleaning steel surfaces prior to coating application. Its purpose is to remove contaminants that cannot be eliminated through mechanical cleaning alone, including:

This process is not intended to improve visual appearance. A surface may appear clean while still containing invisible contamination that can compromise coating performance. SSPC-SP 1 focuses on contamination control to ensure the coating bonds properly and performs as designed.

Surface preparation for pipeline coatings typically follows a defined sequence:

SSPC-SP 1 must be completed and verified before any mechanical cleaning begins. If contamination remains on the surface, blasting or power tools can force oils and salts deeper into the steel, making removal more difficult and increasing the likelihood of coating adhesion failure.

Solvent cleaning should be treated as a documented hold point within the quality process. Because this step establishes the condition of the surface prior to mechanical preparation, it should be witnessed and verified to ensure the coating system begins with a properly prepared substrate.

Although SSPC-SP 1 is a specification requirement, it is often treated as a quick preliminary step rather than a controlled process. Several factors contribute to this:

When solvent cleaning is rushed or poorly verified, contamination may remain on the surface and lead to coating disbondment, blistering, and premature corrosion beneath the coating system.

Verification is essential to confirm that solvent cleaning has been effective. Field testing provides measurable confirmation beyond visual inspection:

Combining visual inspection with testing provides confidence that contamination has been removed before proceeding.

1. Select Appropriate Solvent

Use only solvents approved and compatible with the specified coating system to prevent adverse reactions or residue issues

2. Apply Solvent

Apply using clean rags, brushes, or spray equipment to thoroughly wet the surface and dissolve contaminants

3. Wipe or Scrub

Remove oils and dirt by wiping or scrubbing. Change rags frequently to avoid spreading contamination

4. Clean Beyond the Immediate Area

Ensure a sufficiently large surrounding area is cleaned so contamination is not reintroduced during blasting or mechanical surface preparation

5. Allow Surface to Dry

Confirm the surface is completely dry before proceeding

6. Verify Cleanliness

Perform water break, salt, pH, and blacklight inspection as appropriate

7. Document the Process

Record cleaning methods, test results, and inspection confirmation as part of quality documentation and hold point verification

• Do Not Rely on Visual Appearance

Surfaces that appear clean may still contain oils or salts. Always verify

• Use Clean Materials

Contaminated rags, brushes, or containers can reintroduce contamination

• Use Approved Solvents Only

Solvents must be compatible with the coating system to prevent residue or adhesion problems

• Prevent Cross Contamination

Clean a sufficient area to ensure contamination is not transferred during blasting or grinding operations

• Treat SSPC-SP 1 as a Witnessed Step

Because this step establishes the condition of the substrate, it should be observed and verified as part of the inspection process

• Train Field Personnel

Experienced inspectors and technicians understand contamination behavior and the importance of proper solvent cleaning

Established in 2011, Roberts Corrosion Services, LLC delivers comprehensive, turn-key cathodic protection and corrosion control solutions nationwide. Our end-to-end expertise encompasses design and inspection, installation and repair, surveys and remedial work. We provide drilling services for deep anode installations and a full laboratory for analysis of samples and corrosion coupons, as well as custom CP Rectifier manufacturing.

While our initial focus was on the Appalachian Basin area, we complete field work all over the US. We are a licensed contractor in many states and can complete a wide range of services.

Our biggest strength is in our flexibility for our clients. Solutions and Results.

Let us know how we can help.

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