Selecting the right material for corrosion resistance matters

An offshore platform can have nearly 50,000 ft of tubing, more than 20,000 fluid system components, no fewer than 10,000 fittings, and as many as 8,000 mechanical connections. That's why when selecting materials, it is important to choose corrosion-resistant metals

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THERE are numerous aspects to consider when specifying materials to help manage corrosion. Many considerations go beyond the material itself.

Although initial quality of material and manufacturing is important to fluid system component longevity, finding a provider with materials science expertise and the ability to support you in your materials selection decision-making can also make a difference when building fluid systems that resist corrosion.

QUALITY CONTROL MEASURES

Just about every metal corrodes under certain conditions. Corrosion happens when a metal atom is oxidised by a fluid, leading to a loss of material in the metal surface.

This reduces the thickness of a component, for example, tubing, and makes it more prone to mechanical failure.

Many types of corrosion can occur, and each type poses a threat that must be evaluated when selecting the optimal corrosion-resistant materials for your application.

While the chemical composition of the material affects corrosion resistance, one of the most important factors in reducing failure due to material defects is the overall quality of the materials used.

From bar stock qualification to final inspection of components, quality should be part of every transaction.

MATERIAL PROCESS CONTROLS AND INSPECTION

The best way to prevent a problem is to detect it before it happens. One way to do this is to ensure that the supplier has stringent quality control measures in place for corrosion prevention, beginning with process controls and inspection of bar stock.