LAUSR

In this study the corrosion, sedimentation and subsequently choking in the air cooler tubes of benzene drying section in Bistoun Petrochemical Company, at Iran were investigated. The main reasons of failure were analyzed using standard failure analysis techniques such as visual checking, chemical and mechanical characterizations, metallurgical examinations employing optical microscopy in combination with scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction analysis. The chemical analysis was used to determine the corrosion products. The accumulation of sediment and under-deposit corrosion has resulted in localized corrosion and perforation in the inner surface of the tubes. In addition, the erosion–corrosion accelerated the destruction of tubes. The microbial corrosion can happen because of high water content. The results showed that a combination of corrosion types has occurred. A new idea was proposed for the separation mechanism of low concentration of water from benzene in the process. Finally, the suggestions have been proposed for trouble shooting, preventing corrosion and clogging in the tubes of air cooler and subsequently avoiding production stop.