Corrosion Management of MIC Contributes to Pipeline Integrity

Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is one of many potential corrosion threats faced by onshore and offshore pipeline operators. Experience has shown that effective management of the MIC threat is often more elusive and problematic for operators than the control of other internal corrosion threats. In this paper the application of corrosion management principles is shown to identify a clear path for managing MIC in for example crude oil transport, multiphase gathering and water injection pipeline systems. The basic steps of corrosion threat assessment, mitigation selection and application, and implementation of appropriate monitoring methods, are employed. This systematic corrosion management approach provides meaningful and measurable data that can drive key performance indicators (KPIs). Improved confidence in corrosion threat management contributes to overall pipelineintegrity and asset reliability.