NACE SP0195

Abstract

General Corrosion can lead to serious multiple failures of oil well sucker-rod strings and other equipment. The use of chemical corrosion inhibitors has proved to be a cost-effective approach to minimize corrosion damage and to extend the life of the downhole equipment. This standard addresses corrosion control for atmospheric conditions and downhole environments, treatment procedures, inhibitor selection, and evaluation of corrosion inhibitor programs. Other factors to prevent failure of sucker-rod strings are addressed in API RP 11BR.  Corrosion inhibitors fall into many chemical classes that may be physical or health hazards. The handling precautions recommended by the manufacturer in the material safety data sheet (MSDS) shall be followed. In all cases, protection of the environment shall be considered.  In all operations discussed in this standard, corrosion inhibition is enhanced when sucker rod and coupling surfaces are free of scales and deposits.  Care shall be taken to prevent air entry into the well to avoid oxygen-accelerated corrosion. Air entry can occur if casing vents are left open to the atmosphere or as a result of a failure of the stuffing box or corrosion of the polished rod.