Experience with microbiologically influenced corrosion of copper alloys in the waters of Lake Maracaibo
- Univ. del Zulia, Maracaibo (Venezuela)
The biofouling characteristics of copper alloys have made them one of the most recommended types for cooling systems using natural estuary waters. However, there have been cases of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) in these alloys, caused by Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRB). This article presents the results obtained from an evaluation of MIC carried out on two copper-based alloys: Al-Brass ASTM B-111 UNS C68700 and Cu-Ni 90:10 ASTM B-111 UNS C70600 exposed to the waters of Lake Maracaibo. Microorganisms, organic matter and a high oxygen content make these waters highly corrosive (180 mpy/carbon steel). The evaluation was carried out on Al-Brass tubes after ten years in service in the surface condensers of a steam generating system and for a six-month period on two continuous-flow systems (Test Racks). Results indicate a need to continue the search for more resistant materials because the copper-based alloys under evaluation are not resistant to Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion.
- OSTI ID:
- 549874
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-970332-; TRN: IM9752%%97
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Corrosion 97. 52. annual corrosion conference of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers: economics and performance - bridging the gap and NACExpo, New Orleans, LA (United States), 9-14 Mar 1997; Other Information: PBD: 1997; Related Information: Is Part Of Corrosion/97 conference papers; PB: [4584] p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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