The effect of crude oil in the pipeline corrosion by the naphthenic acid and the sulfur: A numerical approach
Résumé
The objective of this work is to present the effect on a crude oil pipeline of corrosion by naphthenic acid (NA) and sulfur (S), which are responsible for small crack initiation and defects on the pipeline inner wall. These acids lead to the corrosion process during the transport of hydrocarbons. We used Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code to study the development of corrosion on the pipeline's internal wall. Numerical simulations led to velocity profiles, pressure distribution, and the solid deposition rate of FeCH3COO and sulfide (FeS). Thus the influence of S and NA on corrosion according to the crude oil type and boundary conditions can be evaluated. The corrosion rate of the pipeline wall depends on the aggressiveness level of the naphthenic acid and sulfur. These acids are very dangerous components for the safety of crude oil transportation and they present challenges for piping systems. They are among sources of concern for the environment hazard and increase maintenance costs.