ASSESSMENT CORROSIVITY SOILS ALONG A PIPELINE BURIED WITH A CATHODIC PROTECTION SYSTEM

Abstract

The evaluation of cathodic protection systems (CP), applied on pipeline (Samaria-Cumuapa) located in the municipalities of Centro and Cunduacán (Tabasco, Mexico), which transports sour gas at a pressure of 40 kg m-2, was carried out during four months. The monthly measurements of CP potentials of the pipeline, the resistivity and the pH of the soil were carried out. The results indicated that in areas vegetated grassland soils have a moderately corrosivity. However, in areas with low and wettest land, the corrosiveness of the soil is of one higher level and they were classified as corrosive. Because of these differences, it was considered that the pipeline has not been protected properly with CP system, and as consequence it presents corrosion in the areas with more corrosive soils. The evaluation led to propose a new design of the PC, including the installation of additional anodic beds of graphite, in order to extend the life of the pipeline and reduce risks by an explosion that could impact the environment and loss of human life. With calculations redesign is optimize and improve the shelf life of products to reduce power consumption, technical personnel.