Careers HVTS® alloy cladding at a major LNG facility in Qatar
Pre-flash drums operate in demanding process conditions where water accumulation, localized deposits, sour-service exposure and stagnant low-point conditions can accelerate internal corrosion.
IGS was engaged to protect a pre-flash drum affected by localized pitting and general corrosion, building on proven HVTS performance elsewhere at the facility. Previous applications on amine process columns had remained in excellent condition after six years in service, with no signs of cracking or failure.
T26-45405
Plant Background
| Plant / Location | Major LNG facility, Ras Laffan, Qatar |
| Equipment | Pre-flash drum |
| Service | Process-water / sour service |
| Primary concern | Localized pitting and general internal corrosion |
| High-risk areas | Vessel boot and lower internal surfaces |
| Solution | IGS HVTS alloy cladding |
| Project context | Executed under an established long-term frame agreement |
The Challenge
Inspection identified severe internal corrosion in the vessel boot, with the greatest damage concentrated in the lower boot section and bottom dish where process material could accumulate.
Key findings included:
- Localized pitting and wall loss in the lower boot and bottom dish
- General corrosion and early-stage scaling across the internal shell
- Wall thinning, with HIC/SOHIC and SSC also identified as relevant damage mechanisms
Low-point accumulation of water, deposits and corrosive species can create localized corrosion cells, leading to progressive pitting and wall thinning.
The plant therefore needed a long-term solution to protect the affected internal surfaces, particularly the lower vessel areas most vulnerable to accumulation and further degradation.
The Solution
IGS applied HVTS® alloy cladding to the areas most exposed to corrosion and process-water accumulation.
Following surface preparation and inspection, HVTS was applied to create a dense, low-permeability metallic barrier, protecting the carbon steel from process-water exposure, deposits and corrosive species. Unlike organic coatings, the alloy cladding provides a durable metallic barrier with strong adhesion and high resistance to permeation.
The plant’s previous experience with HVTS also supported its selection. Inspection of HVTS applied to amine process columns six years earlier found the cladding in excellent condition, with no signs of cracking or failure, providing proven in-service evidence to support its use on the pre-flash drum.
“What stands out on this project is how proven in-service performance can simplify critical asset decisions. With years of successful HVTS operating experience at the facility, the plant could approach a different integrity challenge with confidence in the technology and its long-term reliability.”
– Rohit Kardile, Technical Lead Middle East, IGS
Results & Impact
IGS completed the HVTS scope one shift ahead of schedule with no quality deviations, and final inspection confirmed acceptance of all treated areas.
The project delivered:
- Long-term protection of the lower vessel surfaces most vulnerable to process-water corrosion and pitting
- A dense metallic barrier isolating the carbon steel substrate from the corrosive environment
- Protection against further degradation and metal loss in the treated areas
- Successful execution within the planned shutdown window
The project demonstrated HVTS as a practical in-situ alternative to more intrusive metallurgy upgrades or vessel replacement, providing long-term protection while supporting extended asset life.
Conclusion
By applying HVTS to the areas most vulnerable to pitting and process-water corrosion, IGS provided a durable metallic barrier that protects the carbon steel substrate from further degradation.
The project demonstrates how HVTS can help LNG facilities extend pressure vessel life, reduce future wall-loss risk, and support long-term asset reliability.
Keeping critical vessels protected and performing for longer.
That’s Asset Vitality.
WATCH: How HVTS prevents process vessel corrosion
Free consultation with an IGS Subject Matter Expert
IGS is here to provide information, answer questions and create an effective solution for your needs.