The evaluation of corrosion problems in condensate return lines-South Refineries Company

Abstract EN

The corrosion problems in condensate return lines of “South Refineries Company-Basrah” were investigated .

Frequent leakages leading to plant shutdown occurred in “Vacuum Distillation Unit” and "Propane De-asphalting unit" due to several punctures corrosion in the pipes interiors .The experimental work included : a.

Evaluation of the corrosion damage, b.

Metallurgical (microscopical) examination to identify the types and characteristics of the corrosion, c.

Testing the chemical regime parameters during operation about any deviations from the standard limits.

Furthermore, the chemical conditioning during the shut-down period were reviewed and d.

Laboratory measurements of the corrosion rate for carbon steel pipe specimens in condensate water compared to that in raw water.

The results of investigation indicated severe pitting corrosion resulted from gas attack which confirmed by metallurgical examination and chemical analyses.

Methods for alleviating the attack of aggressive species with the necessary corrective measures were undertaken .Moreover, the practical means for conosion control and monitoring were suggested.