Integration of intrusive and non-intrusive methods for corrosion and sand/erosion monitoring

There is an increased focus today on corrosion and sand/erosion monitoring in both upstream oil and gas production as well as in plant/refinery operations. The objectives for such monitoring include process optimization, increased production, the reduced use of chemicals, and the improved integrity and safety of facilities. A range of intrusive and non-intrusive methods are available today both for corrosion and sand/erosion monitoring. There are also a wide range of data communication options, and wireless technologies which are making on-line monitoring more attractive and less costly. This paper briefly provides an overview of the different monitoring methods alongside their advantages and limitations, and how they can be integrated within one system, using the same software and infrastructure. The paper also presents data examples of non-intrusive corrosion monitoring for high temperature applications in refineries as well as sand/erosion data from an offshore North Sea field, using intrusive sensors and data management software.