Cathodic Protection System in the Oil & Gas Industry

About the Course

Maintaining aging infrastructure, such as underground pipelines, poses a significant challenge for the global oil & gas industry. Corrosion is a primary factor contributing to the deterioration of industrial infrastructure. Understanding corrosion mechanisms and control methods can substantially reduce operational costs associated with piping and static equipment.

Cathodic Protection (CP) is one of the industry's most prevalent methods for controlling corrosion. CP works by preventing metal corrosion by using sacrificial anodes or applying an electric current. This technique is extensively and successfully applied to pipelines and tank farms. However, despite its long history and broad applicability, CP needs to be more adequately and appropriately implemented, leading to poorly protected structures or, in some cases, causing adverse effects.

This 5-day Cathodic Protection System in the Oil & Gas Industry training course is designed to equip delegates with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in corrosion prevention using cathodic protection systems covering the fundamental principles of corrosion, the mechanisms and types of CP systems, essential design considerations, system components, and field measurement techniques, culminating in advanced troubleshooting and maintenance strategies. Delegates will thoroughly understand how to design, implement, and maintain effective CP systems to protect critical infrastructure.

Core Objectives

The delegates will achieve the following objectives:

• Define key terms and concepts related to corrosion and cathodic protection
• Explain the electrochemical principles of corrosion and how cathodic protection works
• Describe the differences between galvanic and impressed current CP systems
• Demonstrate the use of field measurement techniques to assess CP system performance
• Analyse factors influencing CP design, such as soil resistivity and current density requirements
• Evaluate the effectiveness of existing CP systems through data interpretation and field measurements
• Troubleshoot common issues in CP systems and implement effective solutions
• Develop maintenance plans to ensure the long-term protection and efficiency of CP systems

Training Approach

This training course combines structured and focused presentations and discussions of topics covered with relevant examples and question-and-answer sessions to maximise the delegates' benefits. Relevant computer simulations and videos will emphasize the main topics. Many real case studies will be discussed, and delegates will practice the most recent standards.

The Attendees

This training course is ideal for professionals designing, implementing, and maintaining cathodic protection systems in the oil and gas industry. It is also highly relevant for engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel seeking a thorough understanding of corrosion mechanisms and CP techniques.

Likewise, it will be valuable to the professionals but not limited to the following:

• Corrosion Engineers & Technicians
• Cathodic Protection Engineers & Technicians
• Maintenance Engineers & Technicians
• Pipeline Engineers & Technicians
• Regulatory and Compliance Staff
• Operations Managers
• Quality Control Personnel

Daily Discussion

DAY ONE: FUNDAMENTALS OF CORROSION AND INTRODUCTION TO CATHODIC PROTECTION (CP)

• Overview and Definitions
• Electrochemical Principles of Corrosion
• Types of Corrosion
• Factors Influencing Corrosion Rates
• Comparison with Other Corrosion Control Methods
• Protective Coatings
• History and Development of CP
• Basic Principles of CP

DAY TWO: TYPES OF CATHODIC PROTECTION SYSTEMS

• Potential Criteria for CP
• Sacrificial CP Systems
• Types of Sacrificial Anodes
• Impressed Current CP Systems
• Types of Impressed Current Anodes
• Design Considerations
• Comparison of Galvanic and Impressed Current Systems
• Selection Criteria for Different Applications

DAY THREE: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR CP SYSTEMS

• Design Principles for CP Systems
• Design Objectives and Criteria
• Factors Influencing CP Design
• CP Design Standards and Guidelines
• Design for Pipelines
• Soil Resistivity and Its Impact on CP Design
• Current Density Requirements
• Anode Placement and Spacing

DAY FOUR: CP SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND FIELD MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES

• Anodes (Types and Selection)
• Reference Electrodes
• Power Sources and Rectifiers
• Installation of CP Components
• Voltage and Current Measurements
• Potential Measurements (On/Off Potential)
• Understanding Measurement Data
• Identifying Issues from Data Trends

DAY FIVE: TROUBLESHOOTING, MAINTENANCE, AND PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

• Close Interval Potential Survey (CIPS) Techniques
• Direct Current Voltage Gradient (DCVG) Techniques
• Stray Current Corrosion
• Controlling Stray Current Corrosion
• Preventive Maintenance of CP Systems
• Corrective Maintenance of CP Systems
• Troubleshooting CP Systems