Microbiologically influenced corrosion in floating production systems
Laura Machuca Suarez A and Anthony Polomka BA Curtin Corrosion Centre (CCC), Western Australia School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering. Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia. Tel: +61 8 9266 3781, Email: L.machuca2@curtin.edu.au
B Ironbark West Pty Ltd. Tel: +61 418 368 560, Email: abpolomka@westnet.com.au
Microbiology Australia 39(3) 165-169 https://doi.org/10.1071/MA18050
Published: 22 August 2018
Abstract
Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) represents a serious and challenging problem in Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading vessels (FPSOs), one of the most common type of offshore oil production facilities in Australia. Microorganisms can attach to metal surfaces, which under certain conditions, can result in corrosion rates in excess of 10 mm per year (mmpy) leading to equipment failure before their expected lifetime. Particularly, increasing water cut (ratio of water vs. total fluids produced), normally resulting from the age of the assets, results in an increased risk of MIC. This paper provides an overview of causative microorganisms, their source of contamination and the areas within FPSOs that are most prone to MIC. Although mitigation practices such as chemical treatments, flushing and draining and even cathodic protection are effective, MIC can still occur if the systems are not properly monitored and managed. A case study is presented that describes the microorganisms identified in a FPSO operating in Australia suspected of having MIC issues.
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