Theoretical study of the issues related to corrosion phenomena in oil equipment

Corrosion is a complex, pervasive, and critical phenomenon in the oil and gas industry. Having closely observed its effects on facilities, particularly pipelines and storage tanks, we have realized how it can compromise the safety, profitability, and sustainability of infrastructure. From an economic perspective, corrosion is of paramount importance. It is estimated that each year, a quarter of steel production is destroyed by corrosion, which corresponds to approximately 150 million tons per year or 5 tons per second. These losses could have been higher without corrosion protection. Electrochemical corrosion is one of the main causes of deterioration of oil and gas equipment, resulting in economic losses, environmental risks, and threats to industrial safety. This article provides an in-depth study of corrosion mechanisms affecting hydrocarbon pipelines and storage tanks, integrating a theoretical approach, an analysis of aggravating factors (CO₂, H₂S, chlorides, naphthenic acids) and an evaluation of protection methods (coatings, inhibitors, cathodic/anodic protection). A case study conducted in the Bongor Basin (Chad) illustrates the application of these methods in real conditions, with results showing a significant reduction in corrosion rates. This work highlights the importance of proactive and multidisciplinary corrosion management to ensure the sustainability of oil infrastructure.