Corrosion Control in Crude Oil Distillation Units

In this presentation we endeavor to review the important corrosion problems and preventive measures in atmospheric crude oil distillation units, commonly known as atmospheric pipestills. Our approach will be to emphasize corrosion control methods relying on manipulation of process/operating conditions, rather than on traditional use of resistant alloy materials. Successful application of these techniques necessarily demands close co-operation between the chemical engineer and the materials engineer. Their overlapping contribution to a well functioning corrosion control program is highlighted by several case histories. These illustrate the close influence of process and operating variables on corrosion, and the kind of problems that may arise from incorrect or careless execution.