Analysis of Corrosion and Scaling Factors in Light Hydrocarbon Cooling Systems and Corresponding Control Strategies

Abstract

Light hydrocarbon cooling units are pivotal heat exchange equipment in oil and gas extraction, refining, storage, and transportation production, primarily responsible for the core processes of cooling and condensing light hydrocarbon media and separating and purifying gas-liquid phases. The long-term stable operation of these units directly affects the quality of light hydrocarbon products, production efficiency, and equipment service life. Under actual oil and gas production conditions, influenced by multiple factors such as complex medium composition, fluctuating water quality conditions, unstable operating parameters, and inadequate material adaptability of the equipment, light hydrocarbon cooling units commonly face the intertwined issues of severe corrosion and scaling. This directly results in reduced heat exchange efficiency, corrosion-induced leaks in pipelines and tube bundles, and a significant increase in unit maintenance frequency. Under extreme conditions, it can easily trigger safety incidents, causing substantial economic losses to oil and gas production enterprises. Based on the actual production conditions at the Tahe Oilfield, this paper systematically explores the core inducing factors of corrosion and scaling in light hydrocarbon cooling units, delves into the microscopic mechanisms of corrosion and scaling, clarifies their mutually catalytic and vicious cycle synergistic relationship, and formulates targeted integrated control strategies encompassing source prevention, process control, and post-maintenance management. These strategies cover key aspects such as medium pretreatment, equipment material optimization, process parameter adjustment, chemical agent dosing, and routine maintenance management, aiming to enhance the safe, stable, and efficient long-term operation of light hydrocarbon cooling units.