This paper presents field results from an application where a corrosion inhibitor is successfully being used to control corrosion in an multiphase pipeline system associated with a UK North Sea HP/HT development. The pipeline in question has been manufactured from API 5L Gr X65 carbon steel and is being used for the transportation of wet and potentially corrosive multiphase fluids. Corrosion protection under effective fluid mixture velocities as high as 30 m/s has been under consideration. The studies conducted have not only looked at inhibition, but also emulsion tendency, water quality, partitioning and processed water quality. Previously published work reported that the combined use of carbon steel and corrosion inhibitor for this multiphase pipeline system was feasible and reasonable. However, at the time of that publication neither the final product nor treatment requirements had been determined. High shear flow loop and jet impingement test results, as well as partitioning and pressurized flow loop corrosion test data are presented and discussed. The results of emulsion and water quality test results from the field and laboratory are also considered. The importance of hydrocarbon to water ratio on baseline and inhibited corrosion rates has become better understood through multiphase flow loop testing. This has enabled significant field optimization of corrosion inhibitor treatment needs. Actual conditions monitored during field/pipeline start-up and effects of the inhibitor on the emulsion tendency, water quality and partitioning during start-up are also presented.
Keywords: multiphase flow, corrosion inhibition, CO2 corrosion, flow loop, shear