Corrosion occurs naturally in nature. This can prove to be costly form many manmade structures. When it comes to water, natural gas and oil pipelines, the cost if multifold. Corroded pipelines cause services to halt negatively affecting individuals and industries. It also can create an environmental disaster. These results are preventable. Cathodic protection for pipelines stops corrosion. Fortunately, legislation demands this of the oil and gas industries. Unfortunately, it is not so for water providers.
Cathodic Protection
Cathodic protection (CP) is a technique employed to control the surface corrosion of a metal. It accomplishes this by turning the cathode into an electrochemical cell. This acts to provide surface protection, therefore, extending the life of the metal. Cathodic protection for pipelines is accomplished in one of two methods.
- Galvanic Protection: This involves utilizing a sacrificial anode. It is a process occurring during manufacturing. This means the protection has limited effectiveness.
- Impressed Current: This does not involve the use of a sacrificial anode. It is also rechargeable making its capabilities of protecting pipelines longer
Either technique is effective for specific purposes. Both help water (and other) utility companies reduce the costs of destructive corrosion while keeping those who rely on a dedicated system of supply supplied. CP of water pipelines also ensures the employees and the environment are safe from the catastrophes that can occur when a pipeline breaks and leaks.
Cathodic Protection for Pipelines
In the United States, a large percentage of water main breakage is the result of corrosive elements. The total amount is greater than 250,000 annually. This percent is bound to continue increasing unless Utility companies take the right measures. One means of doing so is to replace all non-protected lines with cathodic protection. For pipelines, research clearly indicates this to be one of the most effective means possible to control corrosion.