Wireline Cable: Corrosion of Galvanized Armor Wires under Wellbore and Atmospheric Conditions

Abstract This paper presents the development of a novel laboratory-based methodology for assessing the corrosion behavior of galvanized steel armor wires under simulated oilfield operating conditions. This methodology will be recommended for predicting the lifetime of wireline cables. The methodology is based on studying the degradation of galvanized armor wires (a) during logging operations in a wellbore environment involving aqueous drilling fluids and elevated temperatures and (b) under accelerated atmospheric conditions simulating cable storage in hot and humid environments. The methodology was verified using three types of galvanized armored wire used in the manufacture of logging cables. This knowledge enhances our understanding of corrosion mechanisms, assesses the contribution of downhole and storage corrosion to cable degradation and mechanical integrity, and offers practical recommendations for extending the useful life of wireline cables.