Cathodic Protection: The Most Effective Solution for Corrosion Protection
Ministry Approved – Compliant with RegulationsCathodic protection periodic inspection and measurement services. Tests according to TS EN 13509 and TS EN 12954 standards, detailed reporting.
The Most Effective Solution for Corrosion Protection and Periodic Inspections by Qualified Engineers.
Corrosion is the deterioration of metallic structures caused by an electrochemical process, posing a serious threat to industrial facilities, leading to millions of liras in annual financial losses and workplace accidents. Cathodic protection is the most effective and economical solution for protecting metal structures from corrosion using electrochemical methods. As AES Innovation, we provide corrosion safety services for petrochemical, natural gas, water networks, and fuel storage facilities in Izmir and the Aegean Region with our cathodic protection control services conducted by our authorized engineers.
Cathodic protection is a corrosion prevention method that works on the principle of making the metal structure to be protected the cathode of an electrochemical cell. The system prevents corrosion from occurring by stopping anodic reactions on the metal surface. This protection is achieved by applying an external current in the cathodic direction to the structure or by using galvanic anodes.
Cathodic protection systems are implemented using two main methods. The galvanic anode method is a system where a metal more active (with negative potential) than the metal to be protected is used as a sacrificial anode. Magnesium, zinc, or aluminum anodes, when connected to the structure to be protected, first corrode themselves and protect the metal to be protected. This method is suitable for small-diameter pipelines, tanks, and water structures.
The external current source (impressed current) method involves applying cathodic current to the structure to be protected using a DC power source such as a transformer or rectifier. In this system, titanium, iron-silicon, or graphite anodes coated with mixed metal oxides are used. External current systems are preferred for large-area facilities such as large pipelines, storage tanks, and marine structures.
What is cathodic protection and how does it work?
Cathodic Protection Periodic Inspection Period and Legal Requirement
The periodic inspection period for cathodic protection systems is regulated by the Regulation on Health and Safety Conditions in the Use of Work Equipment, which is based on the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331. Article 2.3 of Annex III of the Regulation mandates periodic inspection of cathodic protection systems.
If no time period is specified in the relevant standards (TS EN 13509, TS EN 12954), the maximum inspection period is applied as 6 months. However, the common practice is to subject cathodic protection installations to comprehensive periodic inspections every 12 months. Furthermore, in systems with external current sources, power sources such as transformers and rectifiers must be inspected at intervals not exceeding two months, and their protective potential values must be measured at least twice a year.
Cathodic protection periodic inspections must be carried out by authorized Type A inspection bodies. Authorized mechanical engineers, mechatronics engineers, technical teachers who are graduates of mechanical or metal education departments, or mechanical technicians/senior technicians can perform these inspections. As of June 17, 2021, only personnel with a permanent Ekipnet number can perform periodic inspections.
WHY AES INNOVATION?
Prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of your facilities with cathodic protection!
Cathodic protection is the most effective and economical solution for protecting your metal structures from corrosion. Don't neglect your periodic inspections; guarantee the effectiveness of your systems with professional measurements! AES Innovation's authorized expert team..., TS EN 13509 And TS EN 12954 We are here to support you with standard-compliant test protocols and annual maintenance contracts.
Cathodic Protection Measurement Techniques TS EN 13509 Standard
The TS EN 13509 standard for cathodic protection measurement techniques defines systematic measurement procedures for evaluating the effectiveness of protection. Cathodic protection measurements are carried out in two main categories: equipment checks and structural measurements.
Equipment Checks
During transformer rectifier testing, the input voltage (220V or 380V AC), output voltage and current, load ratio, protection current density, and equipment temperature are measured. In anode bed testing, the anode resistance, ground resistance, and anode performance are evaluated. The physical condition of cable connections, test stations, and reference electrodes is examined in detail.
TS EN 12954 Cathodic Protection Standard and Application Criteria
The TS EN 12954 cathodic protection standard is the fundamental standard that defines the rules for cathodic protection of underground steel pipelines. The standard details the system design, installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance procedures.
According to the standard, the effectiveness of a cathodic protection system can easily be divided into two parts: equipment checks and structural measurements. The methods used and the results obtained must be reviewed and approved by cathodic protection personnel with sufficient theoretical and practical knowledge.
When there are indications that cathodic protection is not fully effective throughout the structure, investigations should be carried out immediately and corrective actions should be taken. The measurement values obtained from this study are used as new reference values. The standard also provides comprehensive criteria regarding corrosion rate, leakage currents, exposure to foreign structures, and electrical interference.
Reliable Service with Cathodic Protection Control by Qualified Engineers
Cathodic protection inspection by our authorized engineers demonstrates that the technical competence of the inspection body, the expertise of its personnel, and the calibration of its testing equipment have been independently verified according to the TS EN ISO/IEC 17020 standard. Type A inspection body competence guarantees the reliability and legal validity of the inspection results.
Reports prepared by unauthorized individuals are not accepted in Ministry of Labor inspections, supplier and customer audits, licensing processes, and insurance claim applications. During the independent audit process, the quality management system, technical procedures, personnel training records, calibration status of measuring instruments, and report archiving system of the inspection organization are examined in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact us today for cathodic protection periodic inspections, potential measurements, transformer and rectifier tests, and detailed reporting services. Prevent corrosion, avoid workplace accidents, and ensure the safety of your facilities!