Metal Failure Analysis and Maintenance Planning on Gasoline Storage Tank Pipe PT Pertamina Refinery Unit VI

Inspection and corrosion controlling is essential to avoid work accidents and losses to the company. In this study, the authors conducted a case study with PT Pertamina Refinery Unit VI Balongan, which processes crude oil into fuel, non-fuel, and petrochemical products. Material failure analysis was carried out by inspecting the pipes of the gasoline storage tank, which indicated corrosion. Tests were carried out by analyzing pipe thickness, water impurities, XRD, and SEM-EDX. The test results showed pipe thinning from 24 to 20 inches. Corrosion in gas storage tank pipes is caused by iron oxide, the main product of corrosion, and chlorine as a catalyst that accelerates corrosion. In addition, the SEM test shows a flowery structure, indicating surface defects. Apart from that, XRD testing on the deposits that cover the pipes shows the presence of goethite, hematite, and magnetite, which are oxidation products of iron or carbon steel. Controlling chlorine levels and using inhibitors can be one way to manage corrosion in pipes.