In crude oil desalters, water washing generates a highly saline aqueous phase (rich in Cl- /HCl), creating a corrosive environment where exposed carbon steel is prone to pitting once coating failures occur. Magnesium sacrificial anodes leverage magnesium’s significantly more negative electrochemical potential compared to steel, forming a galvanic cell.
In crude oil desalters, water washing generates a highly saline aqueous phase (rich in Cl- /HCl), creating a corrosive environment where exposed carbon steel is prone to pitting once coating failures occur. Magnesium sacrificial anodes leverage magnesium’s significantly more negative electrochemical potential compared to steel, forming a galvanic cell. Corrosion current flows from the anode through the electrolyte to the steel surface, polarizing the steel to a safe, non-corrosive potential range. This causes the magnesium to dissolve preferentially, protecting the vessel and internals. Strategically installed in the bottom water phase or at oil-water interfaces as a backup to coatings, these anodes require regular consumption monitoring and scheduled replacement.
KEY FEATURES
SPECIFICATIONS
INSTALLATION DIAGRAM
