Corrosion in the oil and gas industry: A costly challenge

Corrosion in the oil and gas industry demands robust management strategies to mitigate significant financial and environmental impacts, ensuring the longevity and integrity of critical infrastructure

- ABDULAZIZ KHATTAK

THE oil and gas industry plays a pivotal role I in it in global energy supply, yet it grapples with A study by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (Nace) reveals that corrosion costs the industry a staggering $1.372 billion annually.

This significant financial burden is broken down into $589 million for surface pipeline and facility costs, $463 million for yearly downhole tubing expenses, and an additional $320 million for capital expenditures related to corrosion.

The financial and environmental implications of corrosion in the oil and gas sector are expected to escalate. As the industry ventures into more challenging environments, including deeper reservoirs with higher temperatures, pressures, and greater concentrations of acid gases, the susceptibility to corrosion increases.

This necessitates a robust corrosion management strategy to mitigate these growing challenges and reduce operational costs over the long term.

Repairing corrosion is not only expensive but also poses significant risks to workers and the environment. Additionally, it leads to the wastage of valuable time and materials, making corrosion prevention critically important.

THE UBIQUITY OF CORROSION

Corrosion is a relentless force that can compromise the integrity and longevity of structures, equipment, and systems across various industries.

Whether affecting pipelines in the energy sector, bridges in transportation, offshore platforms in marine environments, or port infrastructure, the impact of corrosion is widespread.

As industries evolve and infrastructures expand, ensuring the integrity of critical assets becomes increasingly complex.