The mechanism of refinery corrosion by sour water condensates

Sour water condensates are aqueous condensates which contain different concentrations of aggressive compounds such as HCl, H2S, CO2, NH3, cyanides, etc. These condensates which can be fairly corrosive are encountered in a variety of refinery processes ranging from atmospheric distillation units to hydrodesulphurisers and sour water strippers. This paper deals with the mechanism of corrosion by these condensates and the factors influencing corrosion in several typical refinery units. In addition, methods for corrosion prevention and control are also discussed.