What Does
Continuous Dosing Mean?
Continuous dosing is a method in which corrosion inhibitors are continuously applied to equipment (e.g., a water system) that are prone to corrosion.
When water is present or injected into a well, formation, pipeline or other production equipment the presence of bacteria is possible and of great concern. This can lead to the development of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which can accelerate corrosion and lead to equipment and safety risks. Once established, bacteria cannot be completely removed; however it can be controlled by continuously applying chemicals such as biocides.
Corrosionpedia Explains Continuous Dosing
Corrosion treatment in water systems is typically achieved by continuously applying various corrosion inhibitors such as phosphates, polymers, chromates, zinc, molybdates, nitrites and combinations thereof.
A common approach to corrosion protection is to change the environment around the metal surfaces. Corrosion inhibition was thought to require continuous doses due to the equilibrium nature of the inhibitor film. If the maintenance dose of the inhibitor is interrupted then corrosion rates tend to increase quickly. However, continuously applying large quantities of inhibitors is expensive and can be particularly cost prohibitive where water use is high. Continuous dosing methods also affect the effluent stream of the water systems and can result in toxicity issues, environmental concerns or additional costs associated with the remedial treatment of the effluent stream.