The type of coating that is to be used for steel pipes in a project is selected based on the coating material, pipeline design, pipeline location and installation type (aboveground or underground), connection methods, impermeability, and maintenance duration.

External coatings: In order to protect pipes, various materials may be used for the coating of their outer surface. For example, coal tar, bitumen enamel, bitumastic, double-layer FBE, three-layer polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, epoxy, tape coating (primer), galvanized coating, hot wrap, and polyolefin coatings can be used as external coatings.

Internal coatings: Various materials, such as epoxy, polyethylene, and galvanized steel, are used to coat the inner surface of pipes. Internal coatings increase corrosion resistance and reduce the formation of internal pipe deposits.