Recent reports have highlighted hydrogen embrittlement of high-strength, quench-and-temper (Q&T) coiled tubing (CT) resulting from hydrochloric (HCl) acid usage in sour environments. HCl acid treatments expose CT surfaces to aggressive corrosion, often exacerbated by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from formation fluids or as a chemical reaction. Helping the CT industry recognize the morphologies of damage when the tube is retired and re-evaluating CT grade selection and chemicals are vital for averting costly and dangerous CT failures. To achieve this goal, a summary of field failures was evaluated from diverse operational environments and locations.
Hydrogen Embrittlement: Failure Case Studies and Modes
CT field failures can have catastrophic effects on the environment and in the field.
×
Continue Reading with SPE Membership
SPE Members: Please sign in at the top of the page for access to this member-exclusive content. If you are not a member and you find JPT content valuable, we encourage you to become a part of the SPE member community to gain full access.