Design, installation and field experience with real-time cathodic protection monitoring of pipe-type cable systems

Corrosion-based damage on pipe-type cable systems used in underground power transmission is a common problem today, even though virtually all of these systems utilize cathodic protection. The economic consequences resulting from corrosion-based leaks and/or structural damage are significant. Given the age of these feeders, unless a solution to the corrosion problem is found, the cost of these problems will continue to increase. This paper discusses the need for and implementation of on-line, real time cathodic protection monitoring systems. The design, installation, architecture and field experience related to operational monitoring systems installed at three electric utilities are presented.