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A new NACE standard tackles critical testing and diagnosis of a severe threat to pipeline interiors—microbiologically influenced corrosion.
NACE International's new Standard TM0212-2012: Detection, Testing, and Evaluation of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion on Internal Surfaces of Pipelines was prepared by Task Group (TG) 254 (Microbiologically Influenced Internal Corrosion of Pipeline) and is administered by Specific Technology Group (STG) 35 (Pipelines, Tanks, and Well Casings).
Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) is corrosion affected by the presence and/or activity of microorganisms in biofilms on the surface of the corroding material.
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Creative Commons |
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NACE developed a new standard to address proper testing and diagnosing of microbiologically influenced corrosion on internal surfaces of pipelines.
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MIC can result from many types of microorganisms on most metals and some nonmetals; this standard is primarily focused on the effects of bacteria and Archaea in oilfield systems.
Testing for Proper Diagnosis
Microbiologically mediated reactions can lead to pitting, crevice corrosion, differential aeration cells, concentration cells, dealloying, and galvanic corrosion in pipelines.
However, merely detecting microorganisms in samples associated with internal corrosion does not necessarily prove that MIC has occured. MIC investigations require microbiological, chemical, and metallurgical testing for proper diagnosis.
The NACE standard test method describes types of microorganisms, mechanisms by which MIC occurs, methods for sampling and testing for the presence of microorganisms methodologies, research results, and interpretation of test results.
Expected users of the standard include pipeline operators, pipeline service providers, government agencies, and other involved in planning or managing pipeline integrity.
More information: www.nace.org
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