Why is corrosion under the pipeline insulation so severe?
Thread Content
The image below shows the corrosion condition of the pipeline insulation in a petrochemical company’s production facilities. It can be seen from the surface that the corrosion is quite severe. What are the factors that contribute to corrosion in these pipelines?
It must have leaked, or the environment is too corrosive
The insulation layer is damaged, resulting in prolonged moisture intrusion
After seeing the photos from the site posted by the original poster, the corrosion beneath that insulation layer is indeed quite severe. Such hidden forms of corrosion are quite common in petrochemical facilities! I’ve compiled several common causes for your reference: When the insulation absorbs moisture and becomes damp, it creates a continuously humid and corrosive environment around the pipe walls. If the medium being transported contains corrosive substances such as hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide, this will accelerate rusting ； Once the insulation layer ages and deteriorates, moisture, oxygen, and industrial pollutants from the outside environment come into direct contact with the outer wall of the pipes. Many insulation materials also contain corrosive impurities, which further exacerbate corrosion ； If damage to the insulation layer is not detected during routine inspections, corrosion will gradually worsen in a hidden manner; by the time it becomes visible to the naked eye, it is often already quite severe. If repair or prevention is needed, it’s best to consult a professional equipment maintenance team; adjusting the plan based on the specific operating conditions of your equipment will be more reliable
The problem with inspections is so serious; it must have been detected long ago. It’s either a lack of professionalism or carelessness. It seems from the environment that it was caused by a minor leak.
When the insulation layer absorbs water and becomes damp, the key issue is to determine where the water comes from. It is necessary to distinguish whether condensation occurs due to an improper design of the insulation layer or because rainwater gets inside as a result of inadequate sealing of the insulation layer; in the former case, the cause lies in the design, while in the latter case it lies in the construction process. This is for reference only.