Analysis of the causes of high corrosive aggressiveness of associated petroleum gas from Western Siberia fields

Abstract

Background. The article analyzes the causes of high corrosive aggressiveness of associated petroleum gas from Western Siberia fields, causing premature wear of the internal surfaces of technological pipelines, walls and elements of separation equipment and offers recommendations (technical solutions) for their elimination. Aim. In order to improve the reliability of pipelines and equipment of compressor stations, gas treatment plants that receive crude associated petroleum gas, it is necessary to identify the causes of gas corrosion aggressiveness and develop recommendations (technical solutions) to eliminate them. Materials and methods. Field and laboratory studies are required to analyze, evaluate and determine the causes of high corrosive aggressiveness of associated petroleum gas: 1) analysis of associated petroleum gas and separated liquid at the inlet/outlet of each vessel and apparatus included in the technological process; 2) analysis of gas flow in separators and its effect on the walls of apparatuses and pipelines; 3) studies of pipeline sections with corrosion damage. Results. It has been revealed that corrosion of pipelines and equipment of compressor stations, gas treatment plants, to which crude associated petroleum gas enters, occurs in places of condensation of the produced water and the formation of water films on the metal surface, as well as in the drainage lines of gas separators and other places of accumulations of precipitated water and proceeds by the mechanism of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide corrosion. Conclusions. In order to reduce the intensity of corrosion processes and prevent subsequent gusts of technological pipelines, it is recommended to use corrosion protection methods and organize a corrosion rate monitoring system.