Corrosion coupon, abbreviated as CC, is used to monitor the corrosion rate of a material in a process. Generally, a corrosion coupon is inserted into the process or pipeline system to monitor and assess the rate and extent of corrosion occurring within the system. It is held in place by a holder so the corrosivity of the process can be monitored. The test coupon might be the same material as the pipe or the materials might match the materials of construction of vessel or tank internals.
Other uses for test coupons are measuring the scale deposition rate of water in an industrial water process or to provide a location for the growth of microorganisms for the purposes of quantification or identification. Corrosion coupons are widely used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, water treatment, and others where corrosion of metals can have significant economic and safety implications.
The corrosion coupon is usually made from the same material as the equipment or pipeline being monitored. It is installed within the system in a way that exposes it to the same conditions as the surrounding metal. After a predetermined period, the coupon is removed, cleaned, and carefully measured to determine the amount of metal loss due to corrosion. This information helps engineers and operators make informed decisions regarding maintenance, material selection, and corrosion prevention strategies. Corrosion coupons are an important tool in managing the integrity of industrial equipment and ensuring safe and efficient operation, especially in environments where corrosion is a significant concern.
