Pipes rust or corrode as a result of oxidation of the metals containing iron. This happens due to exposure to the natural environment. Corrosion damage in the oil and gas industry is a common and costly problem for pipes.
Fortunately, corrosion in pipelines for oil and gas is avoidable.
Corrosion Problems and Causes
The four types of corrosion and the common factors that cause it are:
- Weight loss corrosion
- Stress corrosion or cracked pipes
- Corrosion fatigue
- Galvanic corrosion (due to currents caused by a mixture of metals)
The right production equipment design, planning, and protection are required to deal with these common corrosion problems in petroleum industry equipment. O&G producers must consider the effects of CO2 corrosion and H2S corrosion in oil and gas production.
Methods to Prevent Corrosion of Metals in Oil and Gas Pipelines
Thankfully, there are a few ways to combat corrosion in your pumps and pipelines.
Oiling and greasing to prevent corrosion
Using oils and lubrication for corrosion control in oil and gas pipelines is one method that has proven effective. Many oil-based rust removers are also safe for rubber or plastics.
If using a rust remover, there’s the benefit of deep penetration into all metal pores of the pipe, and if only a little rust has accumulated, it is easy to dissolve. Severe rust cases may require a different approach.
Pipes can be lined with lubrication on the inside to prevent the rust and corrosion. If, for example, your pipes are being used in places with a lot of build up, the oil on the inside acts as an effective sealant and protection. Before use, make sure that your lubricant is safe to use with the gas your pipeline is transporting.
Prevention of corrosion by epoxy coating
To prevent oxidation corrosion, you can also paint your pipes with an epoxy coating. Because pipelines are usually manufactured from high-quality steel, you need to protect the surface with a high-quality product.
Epoxy is known to be one of these high-quality coating materials. It’s ideal for gas pipelines. When pipelines are exposed to a natural environment, such as warm temperatures, soil or water, corrosion occurs.
If you can prevent the steel itself from coming into direct contact with the water or soil responsible for corrosion, then your pipes last a lot longer and save you money in the long run. Pipeline operators often aim for the prevention of corrosion by painting with epoxy coating to accomplish this, especially if the pipes will be used in diverse terrain.
Other Materials Used for Preventing Corrosion
If you would like to manufacture parts from materials that are less prone to corrosion, you can also use stainless steel fittings, metal plating, or fiberglass.
Where metal materials are not an option because of high corrosion potential, plastics such as polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride may be used.
Browse DXP’s selection of oil and gas equipment and industrial lubricants for more efficient oil and gas production and operations. It may be a bigger upfront investment, but your pumps and pipes will have a greater lifetime
If your company needs better solutions, we’re here to help. For more information on materials and services, contact DXP today!