Mobil uses two-layer coating process on replacement pipe
Mobil Oil's West Coast Pipe Line, as part of an ongoing program, has replaced sections of its crude oil pipe line that crosses Southern California's San Joaquin Valley. The significant aspect of the replacement project was the use of a new two-part coating process that has the ability to make cathodic protection more effective, while not deteriorating in service. Mobil's crude line extends from the company's San Joaquin Valley oil field in Kern County to the Torrance, Calif., refinery on the south side of Los Angeles. It crosses a variety of terrain including desert, foothills and urban development. Crude oil from the San Joaquin Valley is heavy and requires heating for efficient flow. Normal operating temperature is about 180{degrees}F. Due to moisture in the soil surrounding the hot line, the risk of corrosion is constant. Additionally, soil stress on such a line extending through the California hills inflicts damage on the protective coating. Under these conditions, coatings can soften, bake out and eventually become brittle. The ultimate result is separation from the pipe. The coating system employs a two-part process. Each of the two coatings are tailored to each other in a patented process, forming a chemical bond between the layers. This enhances the pipe protection both mechanically and electrically.
- OSTI ID:
- 5514131
- Journal Information:
- Pipe Line Industry; (USA), Vol. 74:3; ISSN 0032-0145
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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