Upstream
Hydrotesting
Before a new or rehabilitated pipeline is placed into service, it must be tested for integrity at a pressure above its designed working pressure. This is usually done with water, which may remain in the system for an extended period of time. Water used in hydrostatic testing can come from a variety of sources and can cause corrosion and introduce bacteria into the pipeline.
While the line is filled with water it is subjected to three types of corrosion:
- Direct reaction of dissolved oxygen with the steel pipe.
- Localized pitting and corrosion resulting from the growth of sulfate reducing bacteria(SRB) and acid producing bacteria (APB).
- Attack by hydrogen sulfide produced as a result of SRB growth.
Baker Hughes works with you to assist in designing an appropriate hydrotest program, from product selection to fluid disposal concerns.
The nature of the hydrotest challenge is dependent upon the type and quality of water used, the length of time the water remains in the line, and the ambient temperature. |
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