Corrosion in the oil and gas industry is an ongoing problem. Industrial coatings are important for all aspects of the oil and gas industry – upstream, midstream and downstream – to prevent hazardous situations and regulatory violations.

• Upstream – Exploration and production (E&P) involves the search for underground or underwater natural gas fields or crude oil fields. It includes drilling of exploration wells or into established wells to recover oil and gas.
• Midstream – Transportation, storage, and processing of oil and gas. Natural resources have to be transported to a refinery, which can be in a different region than the resources. Transportation ranges from tanker ships to pipelines to fleets of trucks.
• Downstream – Filtering, refining or purifying crude oil or natural gas received from upstream sources, along with the commercial distribution of these products to end-users and consumers.

What damage can corrosion cause?

Both internal and external surfaces of structures can be damaged by corrosion. For example, condensate settling inside pipelines carrying natural gas or crude oil can lead to corrosion. Harsh environments, extreme temperatures and seawater can rust external surfaces.

Corrosion can also weaken structural integrity when materials lose strength and ductility. It causes leaks and other hazardous situations. Some oil companies have had their pipelines rupture due to corrosion, with oil spillages creating environmental pollution and long-term ecological damage.

Benefits of using industrial coatings for oil and gas companies include:

• Corrosion prevention. Industrial coatings minimize corrosion and rust-related damage, including leaks and structural damage. It also prolongs the lifespan of equipment and structures.
• Cost savings. According to a National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) study: “The total annual cost of corrosion in the oil and gas production industry is estimated to be $1.372 billion. That figure can be broken down into $589 million on surface pipeline and facility costs; $463 million annually in downhole tubing expenses; and another $320 million in capital expenditures related to corrosion.”
• Regulatory compliance. There are numerous agencies regulating the oil and gas industry. Regulations cover issues such as the release of toxic and hazardous substances, health and safety, refinery plant emissions, petroleum product specifications, and other items.
• Improved resistance to temperature and chemicals. Structures, along with parts and equipment, can be damaged by extreme temperatures and exposure to chemicals. Industrial coatings help limit damage and prolong the lifespan of metals.
• Reduced wear and tear. Daily wear and tear from drilling or pumping can shorten the lifespan of metal parts and equipment. Industrial coatings can help protect them.

We have the certified industrial coating contactors you need.

Industrial paints and protective coatings need to be applied by skilled professionals. FSN has the certified industrial coating contractors you need, with certified workers who know what they are doing. We can advise you on the best choice of coatings based on materials and environmental factors, such as salt air, temperature, humidity, and impurities.

Contact us today to discuss your project.