The development and production of low carbon Cr-containing steels with superior resistance to CO2 corrosion for downhole production applications is presented in this paper. It covers the outcome of an extensive and systematic development programme focusing on metallurgical conditioning and micro-alloying additions to substantially improve CO2 corrosion behavior, whilst ensuring a degree of tolerance to H2S corrosion. The paper presents details of alloy compositions, mechanical treatments and extensive corrosion evaluation of both laboratory and industrially produced steels. The outcome is a major development and influential in the provision of steels with superior corrosion resistance for downhole production applications whilst ensuring economy.
Keywords; Carbon and Low Alloy Steels, CO2 Corrosion, Downhole, H2S Corrosion, Metallurgical Conditioning, Microalloying Elements, Oilfield Applications.