Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC)

Problem

Several pipeworks within several CSG wellsites were experiencing severe MIC Corrosion, causing disruption to service and unscheduled shutdown.

Conditions

Due to the rural location of all wellsites, technicians have to travel through hash roads and farmland to get between sites for repairs.

Solution

All thin wall sections of concern experiencing MIC was all marked out before repairs. Thereafter, technicians used specialised non-spark grinders to prepare substrate to SSPC SP-11 Bare white metal using powertools for treatment. Tools were powered using a mobile air compressor which was being towed through rough terrain on all sites. Repairs were all being engineered for 5mm slot defects to provide a temporary repair until replacement can be organised.

Result

The repairs allowed the operator to run the wellsite safely till the next scheduled replacement, without causing any environmental pollution and disruptino to service.