CT Storage Corrosion - October 2002 - 3011055 - 01

System to Protect Coiled Tubing Strings
from Storage Corrosion
User Manual
October 2002
This information is CONFIDENTIAL and must not be copied in whole or in any part, and should be
filed accordingly by the addressee. It must not be shown to or discussed with anyone outside the
SCHLUMBERGER organization.
SYSTEM TO PROTECT COILED TUBING STRINGS FROM October 2002
STORAGE CORROSION
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SCHLUMBERGER CONFIDENTIAL
STORAGE CORROSION
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System to Protect Coiled Tubing Strings from

Storage Corrosion
1 Introduction............................................................................................................................................5
2 Who should use this system and why ............................................................................................6
2.1 Reasons to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system ...............................................7
2.2 Reasons not to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system.........................................8
3 Corrosion of Coiled Tubing ...............................................................................................................8
3.1 Factors Affecting Corrosion of Coiled Tubing ..............................................................................8

3.1.1 General .....................................................................................................................................8
3.1.2 Low Cycle Fatigue ...................................................................................................................9
3.1.3 Surface Defects .....................................................................................................................10
3.1.4 Butt Welds ..............................................................................................................................10
3.2 Principal Types of CT Storage Corrosion...................................................................................10

3.2.1 Uniform Corrosion .................................................................................................................10
3.2.2 Pitting Corrosion....................................................................................................................11
3.2.2.1 Technical Description of Pitting Corrosion.................................................................11
3.2.3 Crevice Corrosion .................................................................................................................13
3.2.3.1 Technical Description of Crevice Corrosion...............................................................13
4 Summary of Storage Corrosion Mitigation Procedures ...........................................................14
4.1 Internal (ID) CT Protection.............................................................................................................14
4.2 External (OD) CT Protection.........................................................................................................14
5 Details - Cleaning the ID Surface of Coiled Tubing (if necessary) .........................................17
5.1 Chemical Cleaning ........................................................................................................................18
5.2 Mechanical Cleaning .....................................................................................................................18
5.3 Tubing Flushing ..............................................................................................................................19
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6 Details – Neutralizing the pH ...........................................................................................................19
7 Details – Applying the ID Inhibitor to the ID Surface of Tubing ..............................................20
8 Details – Applying the OD Inhibitor to the OD Surface of Tubing ..........................................23
9 Special Considerations For Norway..............................................................................................24
10 Details - Plugging the CT Ends ...................................................................................................25
11 Details – Covering the Reel..........................................................................................................25
Appendix – Products Ordering Information.........................................................................................27
A.1 The Hippo Turbine .............................................................................................................................27
A.2 Corrosion Inhibitors ...........................................................................................................................27
A.3 Foam Pigs..........................................................................................................................................27
A.4 OD inhibitor applicator – oiler system .............................................................................................28
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1 Introduction
Corrosion of coiled tubing (CT) pipe is one of the main reasons for taking the CT pipe
out of service. Coiled tubing strings are often retired prematurely when corrosion
problems are evident or anticipated, leading to a less than optimum usage of assets.
Additionally, corrosion-related pipe failures sometimes occur during coiled tubing
operations (see Figure 1). These failures are costly and have a significant impact on
the safety and reliability of coiled tubing operations. Pipe corrosion cannot be
completely eliminated due to the nature of CT operations and pipe materials used, but
it can be reduced to an acceptable level.
Because corrosion damage cannot be corrected or repaired once it has advanced,

the key to reducing pipe corrosion problems is to apply preventive measures for
mitigating pipe corrosion. There are simple steps that can be taken to reduce the
effects of CT pipe corrosion. Some of these steps are directed at reducing the
corrosion that occurs during the job, and others address the storage period between
jobs. The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines for the reduction of
corrosion damage to coiled tubing during the storage period between jobs.
Figure 1. The effect of severe corrosion on CT
The main possible benefits from preventive corrosion control are:

• Improved safety and reliability of CT operations
• Increased profit
• Improved image and client confidence, leading to increased usage of CT assets
• Reduced environmental damage and well contamination
The combination of increased profit, safety and reliability as well as improved

image/client confidence will have a compounding additional benefit of enhancing the
Schlumberger competitive differential.
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2 Who should use this system and why

Not every CT district will be able to justify the use of the recommended storage
corrosion mitigation system. Some districts have no significant CT pipe corrosion
problems, and thus they may not need to implement this system. However, many
districts, such as those involved in acid treatments or offshore operations, experience
significant pipe corrosion and revenue loss problems, and can benefit from this
system. The applicability of the system should be determined at the district level. An
example is presented below to illustrate how the cost and benefits of this system can
be determined.
Example:
This example provides only a rough estimate of the system cost and benefits, based
on the average, company-wide usage of CT strings. Each CT district can determine
the cost and benefits of the system more accurately, based on the actual usage of CT
strings at the district.
Current CT Conditions:
• In a CT district, 5 CT strings were retired (taken out of service) during the last
12 months. Out of these 5 strings, 3 strings were retired due to pipe storage
corrosion problems (for instance, pipe leak, pitting, suspected corrosion
damage, etc.) and the rest were retired for other reasons.
• The average maximum used CoilLife for the 3 strings retired due to storage
corrosion problems was 60% [for example: (50% + 70% + 60%)/3 = 60%].
Thus, for the 3 strings retired due to storage corrosion, the average lost CT life
is 40% per CT string.
• For all 5 strings retired during the last 12 months, the average pipe life lost due
to storage corrosion is 3/5 x 40% = 24% per CT string. It is necessary to
calculate the average lost CT life for all strings because the recommended
corrosion mitigation system needs to be applied to all CT strings.
Cost of the System:
• In this example, the cost of the recommended corrosion prevention system per
single application (per CT job/operation) is based on the purchase price of new
CT string. For an average CT string (80 kpsi grade material, 0.125-inch wall
thickness), the cost of the system per CT job/operation, excluding the
application time and effort, is about 0.4% of the purchase price of new CT
string. For thicker tubing walls and higher strength (more expensive) CT
materials this percentage is lower - around 0.3%. For thinner tubing walls and
STORAGE CORROSION
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lower strength (less expensive) CT materials the system price per CT job is
about 0.5% of the CT string purchase price. The effects of tubing length and
outside diameter on the system cost per application are approximately the
same as the effects they have on the cost of new pipe.
• Assuming that an average CT string is used on 30 jobs/operations during its
lifetime, the average cost of the proposed system per string lifetime is about
12% of the purchase price of new CT string (0.4% x 30).
Benefits of the System:
• In this example, the system cost is significantly lower than the cost associated
with the 24% pipe life loss due to storage corrosion. Assuming that the entire
24% pipe life loss due to corrosion can be prevented with the proposed system,
the benefit of pipe cost savings is about 12% of the new CT string price.
• The additional cost of pipe corrosion problems or failures can be lost revenue,
as well as the cost of downtime, pipe fishing, logistics, damage to the client, lost
client confidence, weakened Schlumberger image, etc. This additional cost
also can be reduced with the proposed system and should be considered when
estimating the total cost and benefits of the proposed storage corrosion
mitigation system.
Caution:
Keep in mind that in cases when significant pipe corrosion can occur during the job,
such as when a CT string is used extensively for acid treatments or in severe H2S or
CO2 environments, the proposed storage corrosion mitigation system may not ensure
the full 100% of string service life as predicted by the CoilLIFE software.
2.1 Reasons to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system
The following are some of the main reasons to use the recommended CT storage
corrosion mitigation system:
• Improved safety and reliability of CT operation (reduced number of pipe failures)
• Increased profit (extended pipe life)
• Improved image and client confidence, leading to increased usage of CT assets
• Reduced downtime
• Reduced environmental damage
• Reduced well contamination
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2.2 Reasons not to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system
The following are possible reasons not to use the recommended CT storage corrosion
mitigation system:
• There are no significant pipe corrosion problems or corrosion-related pipe failures
in the district, so the cost of the system would exceed the benefits it provides
• It takes extra time to implement and there is not enough client understanding or
support
3 Corrosion of Coiled Tubing
3.1 Factors Affecting Corrosion of Coiled Tubing
This section describes how corrosion damage can occur during CT operations. A
more detailed technical description of CT corrosion mechanisms is presented in the
subsequent section.
3.1.1 General
The most common reasons for internal CT corrosion are:

• Corrosion by treatment fluids left in the tubing
• Corrosion by flush fluids left in the tubing
• Accumulation of fluids/debris inside the tubing
• Oxygen dissolved in fluids or free in the internal atmosphere
The most common reasons for external CT corrosion are:
• Corrosion by left-over treatment fluids
• Crevice corrosion at CT wrap contact points in the spooled tubing
• Corrosion by water and oxygen when the tubing is stored in an area not
protected from weather
Table 1 summarizes the effects of various types of service.
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TABLE 1 SUMMARY OF CT CORROSION CAUSES

Fluids & Physical Factors CT Area Normally Affected by Period of Interest
Corrosion
Acid Predominantly Internal Job and Storage
Brine Predominantly Internal Job and Storage
Seawater (liquid or mist) Internal and External Job and Storage
Water, Rain, Moisture Internal and External Storage
Spent Acid External Job
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) External Job
Carbon dioxide (CO2) Predominantly External Job
Galvanic Coupling Internal and External Job
Oxygen Predominantly Internal Job and Storage
Pipe Scratches External Job and Storage
Fabrication Defects Internal and External Job and Storage
Butt Welds Internal and External Job and Storage
Pipe Fatigue Internal and External Job and Storage
The presence of more than one type of fluid or physical factor can increase the overall
effect of corrosion. An example is the presence of dissolved oxygen in brines, which
increases the overall metal loss. Other factors that can affect CT corrosion are the pH,
temperature and pressure of the fluid that comes in contact with the tubing. A low pH
(pH < 7) accelerates corrosion. In general, higher temperature will lead to accelerated
corrosion as will higher pressure in the case of CO2 and H2S corrosion. In the case of
atmospheric corrosion, higher humidity and dew point will lead to more corrosion
damage. In addition to the environmental factors noted above, the condition of the
coiled tubing itself can affect its susceptibility to corrosion. Three factors to consider
are discussed below.
3.1.2 Low Cycle Fatigue
The repeated plastic deformation applied to CT during service changes the

metallurgical structure of the tubing. As a result, fatigued tubing suffers corrosion at a
slightly higher rate than new tubing. Although there is not much that can be done to
combat this, keep in mind that as the tubing ages, more care must be taken to avoid
further corrosion during storage. Note also that the overall safety margins for operation
of the tubing may decrease as the tubing ages.
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3.1.3 Surface Defects
Tubing scratches and other surface defects are often caused by the injector head
blocks, the stripper, or drag in the well. The tubing that has scratches or other defects
on its surface is more susceptible to pitting corrosion attack than undamaged tubing.
3.1.4 Butt Welds
Butt welds are far more susceptible to corrosion than the rest of the tubing due to the
heat-affected zone created during the butt welding process and the impossibility of
applying any rectifying heat treatment afterwards. Butt welds must be continuously
inspected. In general, butt-welded strings should not be used for regular acid work.
Best practice is to cut out tubing and re-weld it after an inspection shows any
developing corrosion.
3.2 Principal Types of CT Storage Corrosion
There are various forms of corrosive attacks on metal surfaces. However, only a few
types of corrosion attacks occur during CT storage periods. The different forms of
corrosion typically experienced in coiled tubing during storage are discussed in the
following sections.
3.2.1 Uniform Corrosion
Uniform corrosion occurs when the corrosion attack proceeds uniformly and the loss of
material is even (see Figure 2). The tubing becomes thinner. This is often
experienced in CT service when the treating systems are well inhibited and the
corrosion rates are reduced to their minimum.
Figure 2. Uniform corrosion
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3.2.2 Pitting Corrosion
Pitting is a form of very localized corrosion attack as shown in Figure 3. In CT service,

this type of corrosion is one of the most significant, experienced when acid treatments
are not well-inhibited, in tubing stored with seawater exposure, etc. While uniform
corrosion causes a homogeneous loss of material and reduces the mechanical
strength of a metal in a predictable manner, pitting corrosion creates areas of stress
concentration. The consequences of pitting in CT are particularly severe, because the
pits magnify the fatigue effects of the repeated plastic deformation of the CT walls
while running in and out of the hole. Corrosion pits create initiation sites for pinholes
and dramatically reduce fatigue life.
Figure 3. Pitting corrosion
Pitting is an “autocatalytic process,” that is, once a pit has started, it accelerates its
own growth. Pits can be isolated or so close together that they give the impression of
a rough surface. It is difficult to detect pitting on the inside of the CT string since pits
can reliably be detected only by visual inspection or microscopic analysis. Pitting
causes only a very small weight loss, meaning tubing string weight is an unreliable
indicator. Some new magnetic-flux inspection methods for the inside of the CT tubing
have been proposed, but often fail to detect pits as well. Because it is difficult to
detect and can result in destruction of an entire string of tubing due to a few tiny holes,
pitting is one of the most critical types of corrosion to address with the procedures in
this document.
3.2.2.1 Technical Description of Pitting Corrosion
As mentioned above, this unique type of anodic reaction is an autocatalytic process.

Figure 4 illustrates a pit in an aerated chloride solution (NaCl, seawater, or KCl water,
for example) in contact with a metal (M). In Figure 4, the pitting process has started
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and rapid metal dissolution is taking place within the pit while oxygen reduction occurs
on adjacent surfaces near the pit. The rapid dissolution of the metal inside the pit
produces an excess of positive charges (M+) in this area resulting in the migration
(attraction) of the negatively charged ions (Cl-) to maintain electrical neutrality within the
pit. This high concentration of both ions encourages the hydrolysis reaction (M+Cl- +
H2O = MOH + H+Cl-) and as a consequence of this hydrolysis, the concentration of H+
rises inside the pit. Both Cl- and H+ ions stimulate the further dissolution of metal. This
is why pitting is self-perpetuating. Since the solubility of oxygen is virtually zero in the
concentrated solution within the pit, no oxygen reduction occurs inside it.
Solution
Metal
Cl-
M+
Figure 4 – Autocatalytic nature of pitting corrosion
A pit is started because for some reason the rate of metal dissolution is momentarily
high at one particular spot. Chloride ions migrate to this spot, stimulate more metal
dissolution, and a pit begins. A particular spot can be susceptible to pit initiation due
to a scratch, local defect, random variation in metallurgy, or in the concentration of the
electrolyte. In fact, newborn pits are very unstable and many do not develop
significantly. Within a colony of pits, some are very small and never reach the
autocatalytic phase.
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3.2.3 Crevice Corrosion
Crevice corrosion is a type of localized corrosion that occurs in crevices or areas that
are shielded from fluid flow (see Figure 5). The process of crevice corrosion is
identical to the growth of a pit. Some examples of an environment where crevice
corrosion can occur are:
• At the metal contact points between tubing wraps on the reel (Figure 5);
• At the contact point between the tarp and the tubing, when the tarp that is used to
cover the reel touches the tubing;
• In CT logging strings, at contact points between the cable and the inside surface
of tubing if moisture is left inside the tubing.
PIPE CONTACT POINTS:

POTENTIAL SPOTS FOR
CREVICE CORROSION
Section of CT pipe spooled

on reel
Figure 5 – Areas susceptible to crevice corrosion
Crevice corrosion attack is associated with small, stagnant volumes of corrosive fluid
caused by geometry traps, flanges, etc. Contact between metal and non-metallic
surfaces can also cause crevice corrosion as in the case of gasket. The corrosion
takes place in the area where the metal and gasket are in contact.
3.2.3.1 Technical Description of Crevice Corrosion
Initially, the oxygen reduction reaction takes place, but later the oxygen within the
crevice is depleted and oxygen reduction stops. After the oxygen is depleted within
the crevice, the dissolution of metal continues. This creates an excess of positive
charges within the crevice, and forces chloride ions to migrate into the crevice. The
large concentration of chloride ions creates a situation identical to that at the bottom of
a pit, corrosion is accelerated, and pH in the crevice drops to as low as 2 or 3. Like
the process of pitting, the increased corrosion in the crevice increases oxygen
reduction on adjacent areas. This cathodically protects the neighboring external
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surfaces. As a result, the stagnant areas in the crevice are corroded while the
exposed external areas suffer no attack.
4 Summary of Storage Corrosion Mitigation Procedures

The following two subsections summarize the steps to minimize CT pipe corrosion
during post-job and storage periods. Each step is described in more detail in the
subsequent sections. The following procedures should be incorporated into the job
design and applied at the end of every CT job/operation.
4.1 Internal (ID) CT Protection
1. Clean the ID surface, if necessary - If the CT string is new or ID corrosion

inhibition (as described in this document) has been applied regularly since the very
first job, in most cases there will be no need to clean the internal surface of coiled
tubing. Additionally, if acid was pumped, most likely the ID surface will be clean
and free of corrosion deposits. However, if materials that can stick to the pipe,
such as cement, were pumped, the ID surface needs to be cleaned before applying
the ID inhibitor. If this is the case, clean the tubing ID surface and flush the string. If
no acid was pumped, skip step 2 below and go to step 3.
2. Neutralize the ID surface - If any acid was pumped, pump a volume of neutralizer
equal to about ¼ to ½ of the string volume. Make sure to leave the surface of the
metal with a neutral pH (pH=7). Check pH at the surface with pH paper to verify
effectiveness.
3. Apply the ID corrosion inhibitor - Apply internal CT corrosion inhibitor A266 as
described in the following sections and displace it with Nitrogen (N2).
4. Plug CT ends – Tightly close CT pipe ends to avoid the contact of ID surface with
air/oxygen or other contaminants.
4.2 External (OD) CT Protection
1. Clean the tubing, if necessary - If the CT surface contains deposits, it needs to

be cleaned before applying the corrosion inhibitor. If well conditions allow, pump
water or appropriate chemical cleaners at low rates into the BOP port around the
CT while pulling the CT out of the well and take returns on the well head wings or a
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T-sub installed below. The stripper rubber will also help to clean dirt or fluid off the
CT pipe surface.
2. Apply the OD corrosion inhibitor - Use the OD inhibitor applicator to apply
external CT corrosion inhibitor A265 to the OD surface of the tubing.
3. Cover the reel - Keep the reel away from rain and other corrosive elements (for
example, cover the reel). If the inhibitor was applied during rainy conditions or if it
rained before the reel was covered, it is recommended that the OD inhibitor
application be repeated as soon as possible.
The above summaries and Figure 6 give a brief overview of the requirements to
protect the internal and external surfaces of a coiled tubing string from storage
corrosion. The following sections give more detailed information on procedures to
effectively implement each step.
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INTERNAL (ID) EXTERNAL (OD)

CT PROTECTION CT PROTECTION
No Was acid Yes
CLEAN
used?
(chemically,
mechanically, or
Are corrosion both, if
Yes or deposits necessary)
No
suspected
on ID
surface?
INHIBIT
CLEAN (apply OD
(chemically, inhibitor through
mechanically, NEUTRALIZE oiler system)
or both) (pump soda ash)
and FLUSH
COVER CT
(use tarp or other
cover)
INHIBIT
(pump ID inhibitor
between pigs)
PLUG CT ENDS
(seal CT ends to isolate
ID surface)
Figure 6 Summary of the CT protection procedure
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NOTE
Follow all safety standards for pressure pumping, CT operations, nitrogen pumping,
chemicals handling and disposal, etc. when using the proposed system. Any waste
resulting from spills or otherwise contaminated product should be treated as
industrial waste and disposed of in accordance with applicable state or federal
regulations.
Only the specified inhibitors should be used, because other inhibitors may provide
less protection from (or even cause) pitting corrosion.
In cases when significant pipe corrosion can occur during the job, such as when a
CT string is used extensively for acid treatments or in severe H 2S or CO2
environments, or when there is significant pre-existing pipe corrosion damage, this
storage corrosion mitigation system may not ensure the full 100% of string service
life as predicted by the CoilLIFE software.
The CT must be flushed before using ClearFRAC fluids because of possible

adverse effects if small amounts of ID inhibitor are mixed with the ClearFRAC
solution.
Fresh water should be used to flush the tubing. However, if this is not possible,
seawater or 2 wt% KCl brine can be used. If nitrogen is not available on location to
displace the contents of the tubing immediately after the job, apply the full protection
procedure described above as soon as possible after returning to the base.
5 Details - Cleaning the ID Surface of Coiled Tubing (if necessary)

If the CT string is new or ID corrosion inhibition (as described in this document) has
been applied regularly since the very first job, in most cases there will be no need to
clean the internal surface of coiled tubing. However, if materials that can stick to the
pipe, such as cement, were pumped, the ID surface needs to be cleaned before
applying the ID inhibitor. Thus, if corrosion scale or deposits are suspected on the
internal CT surface, the string must be cleaned. None of the oxide coatings that form
on CT or other deposits act as a protective layer. Corrosion will continue underneath
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any oxide or deposit that is present, and the oxide or deposits will prevent the inhibitor
from effectively reaching the metal surface. Cleaning procedures for the inside surface
of coiled tubing can be chemical or mechanical.
NOTE
Typically, no rust will be present internally following acid treatments. The acid itself
acts as an effective cleaning agent.
5.1 Chemical Cleaning
A dilute acid solution (5% HCl) can be used to chemically clean the ID of the string.
This acid bath can be limited to a few barrels only. Like any other acid pumped, this
acid has to be inhibited. Following chemical cleaning with acid, the neutralization step
must be carried out, just as if an acid job had been performed.
5.2 Mechanical Cleaning
One mechanical cleaning option, if the tubing ID is known to have some rust, is the
Hippo Turbine ID cleaner from Hamdeen. This cleaner is superior to wipe darts and
foam plugs for mechanically cleaning the internal walls. Following treatment with the
Hippo Turbine, a dilute acid chemical cleaning as described in the previous section
could still be undertaken. The Hippo Turbine is illustrated in Figure 7.
Figure 7. The Hippo Turbine from Hamdeen
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5.3 Tubing Flushing
Pump a volume of fresh water equal to about one half to one full string volume to flush
the string. Fresh water should be used to displace the tubing content and flush the
tubing. However, if this is not possible, seawater or 2% KCl can be used.
6 Details – Neutralizing the pH

If acid was pumped, the tubing surface must be neutralized to eliminate any low pH
spots that can lead to corrosion. Pump a volume of neutralizer equal to about ¼ to ½
of the string internal volume. Make sure to leave the surface of the metal with a neutral
pH (pH=7). Check pH at the surface with pH paper to verify effectiveness.
There are three types of neutralizing agents which can be used to neutralize acids
either during the acid operation, as an after-acid flush, or by pumping during the flow-
back phase. All these neutralizers work by raising the pH of the fluid in the tubing and
thereby reducing the potential for corrosion. Depending on the alkaline substance
used, these neutralizing baths have different ability to raise pH. As a guideline, sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda, J464) has a pH of 8.5, sodium carbonate (soda ash, M3)
has a pH of 10.5, and sodium hydroxide (caustic soda, M2) has a pH of 14 and is
more hazardous to handle.
The base fluid can be fresh water or 2 wt% KCl brine. Obviously, if pumping the
neutralizer downhole, the use of KCl water is preferred to avoid any formation damage
if some product is lost to the formation. From the strictly corrosion prevention
standpoint, fresh water is the best base fluid for the neutralizer. Using a neutralizer that
has a pH of about 9 to 11 is the best practice. The pH of the neutralizing solution can
be adjusted by the amount and type of neutralizer used. To increase the pH, add more
neutralizer to the water or use a more powerful product such as sodium hydroxide,
Na(OH).
CAUTION
Sodium hydroxide (M2) is more dangerous to handle and also generates more heat
(via an exothermic reaction) as the acid is consumed by the alkali.
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The pH of the neutralizing fluid should not be too high. As the CT string is left exposed
to the environment it will attract and react with acids in the atmosphere in an attempt to
neutralize (especially in an industrial area). This process can load the metal surface
with ions and increase corrosion. So, as mentioned before, the recommendation is to
leave the entire metal surface neutral, with a pH as close to 7 as possible.
7 Details – Applying the ID Inhibitor to the ID Surface of Tubing

Placing an inhibitor on the internal surface of CT can be complicated. The volume of
the inhibitor slug is generally small. Attempting to displace a small inhibitor slug with
nitrogen without using an isolation plug between nitrogen and the inhibitor will most
likely result in nitrogen bypassing the inhibitor. For a proper layer to be formed, semi-
soft plugs (foam pigs) should be used, one in front of the inhibitor and the other
between the inhibitor and nitrogen. Figure 8 shows the RX3 foam pig recommended
for this application. Figure 9 shows the use of such foam pigs. It is recommended that
new pigs be used for each treatment. The appropriate pig diameter for a specific CT
string should be selected from Table 3 in the Appendix. When applying the ID inhibitor,
the nitrogen pump rate should be as small as possible during inhibitor coating for best
results.
Figure 8. RX3 Foam Pig
ID Inhibitor Solution Nitrogen
Foam Pig Foam Pig
Figure 9. Use of two pigs to apply ID inhibitor
The inhibitor to be used for ID protection is internal CT corrosion inhibitor A266. The
ID inhibitor is mixed with water, and for subfreezing temperatures propylene glycol is
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added to the solution. The total amount of ID inhibition solution to be pumped can be
determined by:
Total volume of ID inhibition solution (gal) = 0.0004 x CT OD (in) x CT Length (ft)
where CT OD is the outside diameter of coiled tubing. When propylene glycol is used,
it should be first mixed with water and then the ID inhibitor should be added to the
solution. The volume fraction of each component in the total ID inhibition solution is
given in Table 2. The inhibition solution should be mixed thoroughly before placing into
the tubing. Because increasing the fraction of propylene glycol in the total inhibitor
solution will result in gradually reducing the effectiveness of ID inhibitor, propylene
glycol should be used only when absolutely necessary and as specified in Table 2.
Table 2 - Volume Fraction of Each Component in Total ID Inhibition Solution

Ambient temperature ID Inhibitor Water Propylene Glycol
Above 27ºF (-3ºC) 20% 80% 0
27ºF to -4ºF (-3ºC to -20ºC) 20% 64% 16%
-4ºF to -13ºF (-20ºC to -25ºC) 20% 56% 24%
When the ambient temperature is below -13ºF (-25ºC), no internal corrosion inhibition
should be applied to coiled tubing. However, if following such a CT job without ID
inhibition the ambient temperature during CT storage rises above 14ºF (-10ºC), the ID
inhibition should be applied to coiled tubing when this temperature increase occurs.
The amount of ID inhibition solution needed for an average CT string is about 10

gallons. This is a very small amount to be mixed and pumped with standard field
equipment. If there is no practical way to place this amount of inhibitor solution inside
the coiled tubing, a system shown in Figure 10 can be assembled and used for this
purpose. Either a steel or plastic inhibitor tank can be used. Keep in mind that some
volume at the top of the tank needs to stay empty and some inhibitor volume will
remain at the bottom of the tank after pumping. Thus, the useful tank volume will be
only between the discharge line at the bottom and the re-circulating line at the top of
the tank. The system pump should be strong enough to pump the inhibitor and push
foam pigs into the CT.
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Re-circulate to mix the

inhibitor
Valve
Pump ID
ID Inhibitor Tank inhibitor inside
CT
Pump
Hose
Figure 10. ID inhibitor placement system
To apply ID inhibition, perform the following steps:

• Push the first pig all the way into the reel side of the CT string so that the
plastic cover on the back side of the pig is inside the CT pipe, and connect
the hose line to the CT
• Pour the prescribed amount of the ID inhibition solution into the tank
• Open the valve to direct the flow to the re-circulating line
• Pump to re-circulate and mix the inhibition solution
• Set the valve to close the re-circulating line and pump the entire volume of ID
inhibition solution inside the CT (behind the first pig)
• When the required inhibitor solution is placed inside the CT, stop pumping
and push the second pig into the CT behind the inhibitor batch
• Displace the pigs and inhibitor batch with nitrogen as slowly as practically
possible.
NOTE
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There is no need to displace water or other fluids, such as brines or neutralizer, left in
the tubing form previous treatments before applying ID inhibition, unless the ID
surface needs to be cleaned.
For use in wired strings (CTL), do not cut a groove on the pig body to clear the cable.
The pig will deform enough to pass by the cable.
8 Details – Applying the OD Inhibitor to the OD Surface of Tubing

The inhibitor to be used for OD protection is external CT corrosion inhibitor A265. This
inhibitor is used as supplied, without mixing with water or other substances. The OD
inhibitor should be applied at the end of the job while pulling out of the well from the
maximum depth. Note that OD corrosion inhibition should not be applied if the
ambient temperature is below -13ºF (-25ºC). However, if following such a CT job
without OD inhibition the ambient temperature during CT storage rises above 14ºF (-
10ºC), it is recommended that the OD inhibition be applied to coiled tubing when this
temperature increase occurs.
If the OD surface contains deposits, it needs to be cleaned before applying the

corrosion inhibitor. If well conditions allow, pump water or appropriate chemical
cleaners at low rates into the BOP port around the CT while pulling the CT out of the
well and take returns on the well head wings or a T-sub installed below. The stripper
rubber will also help to clean dirt or fluid off the CT surface.
The entire OD surface needs to be covered with the OD inhibitor all the way around
and along the CT pipe. For this purpose, the applicator shown in Figure 11 should be
used. The applicator connects to the CT depth encoder mounted on the levelwind.
The OD inhibitor applicator is supplied with or without a tank and fittings from Hydra
Rig (see the Appendix for ordering information). The inhibitor is pushed from the tank
through the oiler by compressed air supplied from the CT unit. Dripping of the product
may still occur with this model, but this can be controlled by a drip pan.
STORAGE CORROSION
Page 24 of 28
Figure 11. Hydra Rig OD inhibitor applicator – “oiler”
Protection from rain should be provided after the inhibitor film has been applied to
avoid it washing away. If the inhibitor was applied in rainy conditions or if it rained
before a proper cover was provided for the reel, the inhibitor was most likely washed
away. In this case, re-application is the best practice.
9 Special Considerations For Norway
Issues with A265 usage/registration in Norway have made it difficult to use. Therefore,
it is recommended that A266 be used for both ID and OD corrosion protection which
does not require PR in Norway as it is not classified as hazardous.
Additional points and steps to be taken:
§ Use A266 as described in Section 7 for ID protection

§ Use A266 neat (full strength) for OD protection
§ As A266 is more susceptible to be washed away by weather (rain, sea water
spray etc), it is imperative that the reel is covered immediately after the OD
application (see Section 10).
STORAGE CORROSION
Page 25 of 28
A266 will provide same level of corrosion protection as A265 when used for OD
application when used concurrently with a reel cover.
NOTE
The valve at the inhibitor tank needs to be adjusted manually to regulate the
inhibitor flow and achieve a full OD coverage with the inhibitor. The amount of
inhibitor that needs to be supplied to the CT pipe through the oiler will increase with
increased CT size (OD) and speed.
To avoid using the ID inhibitor for OD protection or the OD inhibitor for ID protection,
it is recommended that the OD and ID inhibitor application tanks have the same
labels (or other permanent codes) as the corresponding inhibitor containers that are
used to fill the application tanks.
For medium- to long-term storage, the OD of the pipe may need to be re-coated.
The tubing should be spooled off and a new inhibitor coat applied.
10 Details - Plugging the CT Ends

Closing (capping) the ends of the string is critical to allow the other steps in the
corrosion-prevention process to be effective. The caps prevent evaporation of the ID
inhibitor, prevent oxygen from contacting the metal surfaces inside the tubing, and
prevent moisture and other contaminants from entering the string during storage.
Tightly closing the ends of CT is one of the most important steps in the procedure.
11 Details – Covering the Reel

Effective external corrosion protection cannot be obtained only by applying the OD
inhibitor to the surface of the tubing. Rain and other corrosive elements can adversely
affect the performance of the OD corrosion inhibitor. To protect against this, a proper
cover is required (see Figure 12). During extended storage, best practice is to store
the string under a roof protected from the weather.
STORAGE CORROSION
Page 26 of 28
Figure 12. Reel cover
NOTE
Do not allow the reel cover to come in direct contact with the CT string , because it
may trap moisture and generate crevice corrosion at the contact points.
During extended storage, verify status every couple of months and reapply the OD
inhibition if necessary.
STORAGE CORROSION
Page 27 of 28
Appendix – Products Ordering Information
A.1 The Hippo Turbine

The Hippo Turbine is supplied by:
HAMDEEN Phone : UK-(1224)-252725
35 York Place Fax : UK-(1224)-252726
Aberdeen, UK Internet: http://www.hamdeen.com
A.2 Corrosion Inhibitors
External and internal CT corrosion inhibitors, A265 and A266 respectively, should be
ordered through Schlumberger like any other Schlumberger chemical products.
A.3 Foam Pigs
RX3 foam pigs from Pipeline Pigging Products, Inc. should be used with the ID
inhibition procedures. Contact information:
Pipeline Pigging Products, Inc.

P.O. Box 692005-300
Houston, TX 77269
Phone: (281) 351-6688
Fax: (281) 255-2385
Internet: http://www.pipepigs.com
Order RX3 pigs according to Table 3 below based on the tubing outside diameter and
specified wall thickness. For tapered CT strings, the minimum specified wall thickness
along the entire CT string should be used. The values in Table 3 are based on the
requirement that the pig diameter should be about 2% larger than the maximum
internal diameter of the tubing. Because the pigs cannot be manufactured to an exact
diameter, pig diameter ranges are specified.
RX3 pigs are made of polyurethane foam and their properties can degrade over
extended storage periods or if exposed to sunlight. The polyurethane foam hardens
with time, rendering the pigs less flexible and possibly reducing their effectiveness. To
avoid the deterioration of pigs, store the pigs in a closed opaque container at the room
STORAGE CORROSION
Page 28 of 28
temperature. It is recommended that RX3 pigs be used within six months from the
time of their manufacture.
Table 3 Recommended RX3 Pig Diameter Ranges (inches)
Minimum CT Coiled Tubing Outside Diameter (inches)

wall thickness
(inches) 1.0 1.25 1.5 1.75 2.0 2.375 2.625 2.875
0.080 0.85 – 0.9 1.1 – 1.2 - - - - - -
0.087 0.85 – 0.9 1.1 – 1.2 - - - - - -
0.095 0.85 – 0.9 1.1 – 1.2 1.35 – 1.45 - - - - -
0.102 0.80 – 0.85 1.05 – 1.15 1.3 – 1.4 - - - - -
0.109 0.80 – 0.85 1.05 – 1.15 1.3 – 1.4 1.55 – 1.65 1.8 – 1.9 - - -
0.116 - 1.05 – 1.15 1.3 – 1.4 1.55 – 1.65 1.8 – 1.9 - - -
0.125 - 1.0 – 1.1 1.25 – 1.35 1.5 – 1.6 1.75 – 1.85 2.15 – 2.25 - -
0.134 - 1.0 – 1.1 1.25 – 1.35 1.5 – 1.6 1.75 – 1.85 2.15 – 2.25 2.4 – 2.5 -
0.145 - 1.0 – 1.1 1.25 – 1.35 1.5 – 1.6 1.75 – 1.85 2.1 – 2.2 2.35 – 2.45 -
0.156 - 0.95 – 1.05 1.2 – 1.3 1.45 – 1.55 1.7 – 1.8 2.1 – 2.2 2.35 – 2.45 2.6 – 2.7
0.175 - 0.9 – 1.0 1.15 – 1.25 1.4 – 1.5 1.65 – 1.75 2.05 – 2.15 2.3 – 2.4 2.55 – 2.65
0.190 - - 1.15 – 1.25 1.4 – 1.5 1.65 – 1.75 2.0 – 2.1 2.25 – 2.35 2.5 – 2.6
0.204 - - - 1.35 – 1.45 1.6 – 1.7 2.0 – 2.1 2.25 – 2.35 2.5 – 2.6
0.224 - - - - - 1.95 – 2.05 2.2 – 2.3 2.45 – 2.55
0.250 - - - - - - 2.15 – 2.25 2.4 – 2.5
0.280 - - - - - - 2.1 – 2.2 2.35 – 2.45
0.300 - - - - - - 2.05 – 2.15 2.3 – 2.4
NOTE: The pig length is automatically specified by the manufacturer and it ranges approximately from 2 times pig
diameter to 3 times pig diameter.
A.4 OD inhibitor applicator – oiler system

Order part number CB441217 (the oiler and tank system) from:
Hydra Rig Telephone: (817) 457-3825
6000 East Berry Street Fax: (817) 457-3897
Fort Worth, TX 76119, USA Email: hrisales@hydrarig.com

CT Storage Corrosion - October 2002 - 3011055 - 01

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System to Protect Coiled Tubing Strings

from Storage Corrosion

System to Protect Coiled Tubing Strings from

2 Who should use this system and why ............................................................................................6

2.1 Reasons to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system ...............................................7

2.2 Reasons not to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system.........................................8

3 Corrosion of Coiled Tubing ...............................................................................................................8

3.1 Factors Affecting Corrosion of Coiled Tubing ..............................................................................8

3.2 Principal Types of CT Storage Corrosion...................................................................................10

4 Summary of Storage Corrosion Mitigation Procedures ...........................................................14

4.1 Internal (ID) CT Protection.............................................................................................................14

4.2 External (OD) CT Protection.........................................................................................................14

5 Details - Cleaning the ID Surface of Coiled Tubing (if necessary) .........................................17

5.1 Chemical Cleaning ........................................................................................................................18

5.2 Mechanical Cleaning .....................................................................................................................18

5.3 Tubing Flushing ..............................................................................................................................19

6 Details – Neutralizing the pH ...........................................................................................................19

7 Details – Applying the ID Inhibitor to the ID Surface of Tubing ..............................................20

8 Details – Applying the OD Inhibitor to the OD Surface of Tubing ..........................................23

9 Special Considerations For Norway..............................................................................................24

10 Details - Plugging the CT Ends ...................................................................................................25

11 Details – Covering the Reel..........................................................................................................25

Appendix – Products Ordering Information.........................................................................................27

A.1 The Hippo Turbine .............................................................................................................................27

A.2 Corrosion Inhibitors ...........................................................................................................................27

A.3 Foam Pigs..........................................................................................................................................27

A.4 OD inhibitor applicator – oiler system .............................................................................................28

Because corrosion damage cannot be corrected or repaired once it has advanced,

Figure 1. The effect of severe corrosion on CT

The main possible benefits from preventive corrosion control are:

The combination of increased profit, safety and reliability as well as improved

2 Who should use this system and why

2.1 Reasons to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system

2.2 Reasons not to use the recommended corrosion mitigation system

3 Corrosion of Coiled Tubing

3.1 Factors Affecting Corrosion of Coiled Tubing

The most common reasons for internal CT corrosion are:

Table 1 summarizes the effects of various types of service.

TABLE 1 SUMMARY OF CT CORROSION CAUSES

3.1.2 Low Cycle Fatigue

The repeated plastic deformation applied to CT during service changes the

3.1.3 Surface Defects

3.1.4 Butt Welds

3.2 Principal Types of CT Storage Corrosion

3.2.1 Uniform Corrosion

Figure 2. Uniform corrosion

3.2.2 Pitting Corrosion

Pitting is a form of very localized corrosion attack as shown in Figure 3. In CT service,

Figure 3. Pitting corrosion

3.2.2.1 Technical Description of Pitting Corrosion

As mentioned above, this unique type of anodic reaction is an autocatalytic process.

Figure 4 – Autocatalytic nature of pitting corrosion

3.2.3 Crevice Corrosion

PIPE CONTACT POINTS:

Section of CT pipe spooled

Figure 5 – Areas susceptible to crevice corrosion

3.2.3.1 Technical Description of Crevice Corrosion

4 Summary of Storage Corrosion Mitigation Procedures

4.1 Internal (ID) CT Protection

1. Clean the ID surface, if necessary - If the CT string is new or ID corrosion

4.2 External (OD) CT Protection

1. Clean the tubing, if necessary - If the CT surface contains deposits, it needs to

INTERNAL (ID) EXTERNAL (OD)