Numerical model for calculation of parameters of cathodic protection system with galvanic anodes

This paper presents the use of coupled BEM/FEM method by the numeric calculations of protection current/potential distribution when the cathodic protection system with galvanic anodes is applied. Cathodic protection (CP) system is very efficient system for protection of underground metal object from corrosion. The most important phase by installing the CP system is to optimally and correctly define the distribution of the protection current. There are many correlation related factors that influence the dimensioning of CP elements and the time of their design. The distribution of protection current/potential in systems of cathodic protection is governed by the Laplace equation, with the usage of corresponding predefined boundary conditions. Field data are obtained during the installation of the system and periodical field measurements during the exploitation of cathodic protection system with galvanic anodes. In this paper, acquired field data are compared to the values that were obtained using numerical calculations. Deviations between these data are negligible. Values of protection current/potential are most influenced by values of soil resistivity between anode and cathode surface.