This paper discusses the experience with selected practices in the life cycle of a gas plant and
their impact on equipment damage mechanisms, corrosion rates and eventual life expectancy
of the plant. A number of selected practices at the design, construction, operation and
maintenance phases are evaluated. Alternative options to each practice are discussed and the
potential effect of selected practice on type and severity of damage mechanisms experienced
are outlined. Design practices discussed include material selection, solvent selection and
equipment sizing. The construction practices include welding, heat treatment, and project
quality control. And the operation practices include raw gas composition, solvent circulation
and testing, and corrosion monitoring. Maintenance cycles as well as maintenance practices
are also examined.
Key terms: design practices, construction practices, operations practices, plant life, damage
mechanisms, corrosion rate