Casing Corrosion in the South Belridge Field

Abstract

Abstract To determine the causes and extent of casing corrosion in the South Belridge field, casing from two wells was recovered. This casing was subjected to detailed examination and comparison with casing inspection logs, casing caliper logs, cement bond logs, and formation logs. Two causes of corrosion were found. In the upper approximate 200 feet external corrosion was due to oxygen corrosion enhanced by chlorides and sulfates in the soil. Below 200 feet corrosion was due to carbon dioxide containing formation water. Supporting evidence is given and includes scale analyses, sidewall core analyses, and soil analyses. Proposed corrosion control measures are discussed.