Solving Problems Associated with Biocorrosion in Oil Production Operations

Abstract Today, biocorrosion is well documented and recognized as a costly problem in oil production operations. Sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) are the most studied microorganisms associated with biocorrosion. All the factors directly or indirectly associated with bacterial growth, such as velocity, suspended solids content and temperature should be taken into consideration in designing a biocorrosion control program. An effective biocide can control bacterial growth and subsequently biocorrosion. Continued monitoring is an integral part of the control program in order to decide on the concentration, selection and frequency of treatment of a biocide. Bacteria, especially SRB’s are not necessarily easily detected, requiring several monitoring techniques. The use of corrosion weight loss coupons for monitoring bacterial growth and biocorrosion rate have been very successful. Two case histories have been presented in this paper demonstrating the application of various techniques to solve biocorrosion problems.