Corrosion Control Techniques in Petroleum Industry

Abstract

Corrosion is caused inside as well as outside of piping, pipe fittings, pipelines, tanks and vessels. Crude oil and raw gas from the wellhead contain impurities, Carbon dioxide, water and toxic gases all of which are corrosive in nature and cause internal corrosion of piping. External corrosion is caused by environmental impact and is a variable game changer for those companies operating in hostile, corrosive marine environments. Corrosion Control for Offshore structures require critical corrosion control methods and techniques that will prolong structural life while saving millions in cost.

Energy Industry has learned to live with corrosion. International Standards Organizations have identified different measures to counter and minimize the effects of this inevitable phenomenon, such as API – RP 583 (Corrosion under Insulation and Fireproofing) and DNV-RP-C101 (Allowable Thickness Diminution for Hull Structure of Offshore Ships). Usually two approaches are used in this regards. First approach involves incorporating for Corrosion Allowance in the design wall thickness of the vessel, pipe or structure and second one is to use Corrosion Inhibitors. NACE International (formerly National Association of Corrosion Engineers) provides globally recognized standards that are responsive to the latest changes in products & technology, and whose implementation streamlines processes and trims costs. Businesses can prolong the life of their premium assets by following standards such as NACE SP0108-2008 (Corrosion Control of Offshore Structures by Protective Coatings) and NACE TM0194-2014 (Field Monitoring of Bacterial Growth in Oil and Gas Systems).

Keywords: Corrosion, Petroleum Industry