Gas pipeline name for the abrasive, sometimes pyrophoric dust of iron sulfides, iron oxides and other solids that collects in natural gas transmission lines. It forms from internal corrosion of the steel, fed by moisture with H2S, CO2 or oxygen, and travels with the gas to foul filter separators, compressor stations, meters and control valves. Freshly exposed iron sulfide can ignite in air, so pig returns and filter changeouts are kept wet.
Pig receiver's full of black powder again, keep it wetted down, that iron sulfide will light off in the air.
Also heard as
- iron sulfide dust
Related terms
Sour service
Operating conditions with wet hydrogen sulfide, which call for cracking-resistant materials and controls.
Bugs
Field slang for the bacteria behind microbiologically influenced corrosion and system souring.
Smart pig
Industry nickname for an in-line inspection tool that rides through a pipeline recording its condition.
Corrosion inhibitor
Chemical added in small doses to a fluid to slow corrosion of the metal it touches.