Evaluation of a Novel Top-of-the-Line Corrosion (TLC) Mitigation Method in a Large-Scale Flow Loop

Abstract

Innovative top-of-the-line corrosion (TLC) inhibition techniques are being investigated as an alternative to batch treatment. A novel idea consists of injecting the corrosion inhibitor within a foam matrix. Previously, a "proof of concept" validation of the novel TLC mitigation method was successfully conducted in a small-scale laboratory setup. The findings in this paper present the next step in the study before field trial: validation of the method and characterization of the foam properties in realistic, large-scale flowing systems. The foam containing the inhibitor was injected into the flow loop, forming a dense plug, which was pushed forward by the gas. The foam-generation method carried considerable importance for foam stability, as well as inhibition persistency. Foam created under stagnant conditions retarded the corrosion rate up to 97%, however the inhibition effect was not persistent. When the foam containing 20,000 ppm v of corrosion inhibitor, TOFA/ DETA imidazoline, was created in flowing conditions, the corrosion inhibition efficiency was calculated to be higher than 90%, and the inhibition effect lasted up to 50 h. The novel TLC mitigation method showed promising results in a largescale flow loop, and applications in oil and gas field environments should be considered.

Development and evaluation of miniature electrodes for electrochemical measurements in a CO2 top of line corrosion environment

“…Several different degradation mechanisms are possible with the presence of such species. However, one of the most recent, and perhaps more difficult processes to control is TLC corrosion [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11].…”

Corrosion problems and solutions in oil, gas, refining and petrochemical industry

“…There is a critical rate of condensation of water vapor in gas pipelines (0.15 to 0.25 ml m -2 s -1 ) for appearing top-of-line corrosion [20]. Various models were developed that allow to predict corrosion rates of carbon steel knowing condensation rate of water vapor and other parameters [21][22][23][24][25][26][27]. Ultra sound examination with flexible sensors is used for determination top-ofline corrosion [28].…”

Development of an effective method for internal pipeline corrosion control in the presence of CO2

“…The large scale flow loop is described elsewhere in detail [22]. The experimental conditions are summarized in Table 1.…”