Types of corrosion in offshore structures & the best marine corrosion inhibitors explained
Corrosion is a number one cause of deterioration in buildings and structures located next to the sea, a lake, a river, or another water source. When left untreated, corrosion in offshore structures can lead to unsafe working conditions and forces marine assets (such as oil & gas facilities, equipment, etc.) to temporarily close. Or, at least until the corrosion is quelled by a suitable solution.
Common culprits of corrosion in offshore structures
The vast majority of marine corrosion is caused by the earth’s natural elements – water, sun, minerals (salt), and atmospheric gases (oxygen & Co2). Though we are exposed to these elements in varying proportions each day – offshore structures receive intense or repetitive exposure, for example – waves crashing into them, the direct sun beating down on them, or salt-drenched wind consistently whipping at them.
The natural elements responsible for marine corrosion are:
- Seawater – or more specifically – the salt, oxygen, and carbon dioxide contents of seawater;
- Salt in the air;
- Exposure to the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays;
- The tide going in and out, which causes surfaces to get drenched then dry quickly over and over again.
Our top solutions for corrosion in offshore structures
While we can do little to prevent the sun, wind, and other natural elements from acting the way they do, we can take steps to protect our offshore structures and marine assets while they are out in the open and without shelter. At CCUK, we work with a broad range of anti-corrosion solutions, including materials, sprays and greases, cathodic protection methods, and more.
- Carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRPs) – a very strong, versatile material; also an ideal solution for pipelines and smaller structural assets;
- Marine cathodic protection – which uses electrical anodes to redirect corrosion
- Marine corrosion spray or anti-corrosion grease – such as a heavy-duty CDC corrosion inhibitor
Protect your offshore structures from corrosion today
Many offshore structures such as oil & gas facilities are extremely costly to run – and believe it or not, corrosion is a common risk that we need to prepare for. The first step is booking a free feasibility survey and cost analysis for your offshore site – book yours by filling out our online form. The next stage is deciding which anti-corrosion solution to use, but we’ll discuss this collaboratively with you when the time comes. We look forward to hearing from you!
