Abriox

MONITORING CP

All pipeline operators use CP extensively on their transmission pipelines. The big advantage of CP over other forms of corrosion treatment is that it is applied very simply by maintaining a DC circuit and its effectiveness can be monitored continuously. Because of the importance of CP in protecting the pipe, operators are required to take and report regular measurements of CP data, both of the levels of protection applied to the pipe (at source) and the in situ levels measured along the pipe itself.

• In an impressed current system, measurements are taken at transformer rectifiers and test posts.

• In a galvanic system, measurements are taken at the sacrificial anode.

The frequency of measurements at the various points is generally in compliance with NACE guidelines. Pipeline operators are responsible for providing their national regulatory body with evidence that their monitoring is adequate to demonstrate effective management of their CP systems.

The data is gathered in the field by technicians. However, the cost of this activity is significant and there are other disadvantages of manual data collection.

Abriox’s MERLIN system has been designed, in discussion with CP professionals and pipeline operators, specifically for automatic monitoring of CP data. It enables operators to:

• Reduce operational monitoring costs significantly

• Monitor pipeline CP levels on a daily basis automatically

• Respond immediately to a potential corrosion hazard

• Deploy skilled labour more effectively

• Reduce lone working and the need to access remote sites

• Demonstrate best practice to Regulators

• Reduce environmental emissions from survey vehicles.