(189a) Experiences with Hydrotesting and MIC on Recent Projects

Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) is a well understood corrosion mechanism that involves corrosion of metals either caused by or promoted by microorganisms (usually bacteria). One situation that frequently can lead to MIC is hydro testing of new piping and equipment as part of a capital project. This paper will include the following components:

• A high level overview of MIC

• Provide some recent examples of MIC encountered during construction / commissioning of new ethylene units

• Provide some recommended actions which have been successful in avoiding MIC