The Effect of Corrosion on Pumps for Utility and Process Pumps Reliability in Oil and Gas Industry

Nnorom ObinichiDepartment of Mechanical Engineering, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, P.M.B., 5323, NigeriaEtu, BasseyDepartment of Mechanical Engineering, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, P.M.B., 5323, NigeriaIfeanyi UchegbulamProduction Technology, School of Science Laboratory Technology, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, P.M.B., 5323, Nigeria

Vol 10 No 4 (2026): Volume 10, Issue 4, April 2026 | Pages: 25-33

International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology

OPEN ACCESS | Research Article | Published Date: 06-04-2026

doi Logo doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2026.104004

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of corrosion on the reliability of utility and process pumps at the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) facility, Bonny. Using a mixed-methods approach incorporating field data (2018–2023), Weibull reliability modeling, FMEA, and laboratory weight-loss tests, the research quantifies corrosion-induced degradation. Results show that process pumps experience the highest failure and corrosion rates, with impeller pitting identified as the most critical failure mode (RPN = 432). Weibull analysis indicates early wear-out trends for process pumps, while backup pumps display random failure behavior. Laboratory validation confirmed greater corrosion in duplex steel used in process pumps. The study concludes that corrosion critically impacts pump reliability and recommends advanced monitoring, material upgrades, and predictive maintenance. Key contributions include a tailored reliability model and FMEA strategy for LNG pump systems.

Keywords

Reliability, modelling, utility, pumps, corrosion


Citation of this Article

Nnorom Obinichi, Etu, Bassey, & Ifeanyi Uchegbulam. (2026). The Effect of Corrosion on Pumps for Utility and Process Pumps Reliability in Oil and Gas Industry. International Research Journal of Innovations in Engineering and Technology - IRJIET, 10(4), 25-33. Article DOI https://doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2026.104004

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