Assessment of internal and external corrosion control measures for crude oil transmission pipelines for asset integrity management

Pipeline (Asset) Integrity management is now a major focus for most pipeline operators and asset holders. The reason for this renewed interest may be attributed to a couple of factors, which include new legislation, technical advancements, strict penalties for accidental release and ageing of vast networks of pipelines across the world. Integrity management is now mandatory for all asset holders. All liquid transmission pipelines must be declared fit for purpose prior to be been allowed in service by most local and national legislations and meet strict international standards. An integrity management program in addition to ensuring pipelines are fit for service, provide the operators ample advantages which includes, operation beyond the design life, safe operations without loss of containment and enhance company reputation. However, inspite of the benefits that integrity management brings, most operators still lag behind due to inadequate or poor assessment of their corrosion management program which negatively imparts the integrity management program. This paper describes the parameters to be monitored and analysed by operators and asset holders to evaluate the effectiveness of their control and management measures (Internal and External Corrosion) as an integral part of pipeline (asset) integrity management. In order, to improve on current practice the author suggested a systematic approach to enhance effectiveness of current methods.