A review of contributing parameters in corrosion of oil and gas wells

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to provide an insight into the main parameters that govern corrosion mechanisms in production tubing of oil and gas wells. Design/methodology/approach Corrosion has been an old concern for the oil industry. None of the three major sectors of the oil industry, namely, upstream, midstream and downstream, are immune of corrosion attacks. However, the upstream sector (oil and gas production facilities) is more vulnerable to corrosion because of its extreme conditions such as high temperature and pressure, multiphase flow, complicated water chemistry, presence of acidic gases, etc. This paper is a general review of the influence of such parameters on corrosion mechanisms of oil and gas wells. Findings In recent years, many technical papers have been published in this area. However, none of them provide a general review of the all contributing parameters on corrosion under field conditions. Originality value Modeling and corrosion mitigating processes under downhole conditions require a thorough understanding of the influencing parameters. This paper aims to provide an insight into the main parameters that govern corrosion mechanisms in production tubing of oil and gas wells.