Correlation of Corrosion In a Crude Distillation Unit With Chemistry of the Crudes^★

Of the many factors affecting corrosion rates in a crude distillation unit, the one of greatest importance is the tendency for a crude oil to liberate hydrogen sulfide upon being heated. A test procedure has been developed in which the hydrogen sulfide evolution from a crude is quantitatively measured as a function of temperature. Data are presented correlating corrosion rates in various parts of a crude unit with the hydrogen sulfide evolution characteristics of the crude being processed. On the basis of these data, it is concluded that corrosion rates in many parts of a crude distillation unit can be predicted with reasonable accuracy on the basis of hydrogen sulfide evolution and other chemical characteristics of the crude oil. 8.4.3