FAQs

1. What is cathodic protection?

   • Cathodic protection is an electrochemical technique used to control the corrosion of metal structures by making them the cathode of an electrochemical cell.

2. Why is cathodic protection important

   • Cathodic protection prevents costly and dangerous corrosion damage in pipelines, tanks, and other structures. This increases asset lifespan, reduces maintenance costs, prevents leaks and spills, and ensures environmental safety.

3. What types of structures can be protected with cathodic protection?

   • Cathodic protection can be applied to a wide range of structures, including:

     • Underground pipelines (oil & gas, water, sewage)

     • Storage tanks

     • Piers and jetties

     • Ships and offshore platforms

     • Steel reinforcement in concrete

     • Vessels

4. What are the different types of cathodic protection systems?

   • There are two main types of cathodic protection systems:

     • Galvanic (Sacrificial) Anode Systems: Use sacrificial anodes (made of metals like zinc or magnesium) that corrode to protect the structure.

     • Impressed Current Systems: Use an external DC power source (rectifier) to provide the protective current.

5. How long does cathodic protection last?

   • The lifespan of a cathodic protection system depends on factors like the type of system, environmental conditions, and the quality of the installation. Well-maintained systems can last for decades.

Show and Sons Enterprise Specific FAQs

6. What types of cathodic protection services does Show and Sons Enterprise offer?

   • We offer a comprehensive range of services, including design, installation, maintenance, repair, and inspection of CP systems for pipelines, tanks, and other structures.

7. What industries do you serve?

   • We serve a variety of industries, including oil and gas, water and wastewater, chemical processing, and infrastructure.

8. Do you offer emergency repair services?

   • Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency response to address CP system failures and prevent costly downtime.

9. What types of anodes do you supply and install?

   • We offer a wide selection of anodes, including zinc, magnesium, aluminum, and titanium, to suit different applications and environments.

10. What types of surveys and inspections do you conduct?

    • We perform DCVG surveys, CIPL surveys, and CAT surveys to assess the condition and effectiveness of cathodic protection systems.

11. What is pin brazing, and why is it important?

    • Pin brazing is a technique used to create reliable electrical connections to pipelines and structures for attaching test leads, bonding cables, and installing anodes. It ensures accurate monitoring and efficient current distribution.

12. Does Show and Sons Enterprise offer services to mitigate stray currents and AC interference?

    • Yes, we have expertise in stray current analysis and mitigation, as well as AC mitigation techniques, to protect CP systems from external interference.

13. How can I contact Show and Sons Enterprise for a consultation or service request?

    • You can contact us through our website, phone, or email to discuss your cathodic protection needs and schedule a consultation.

14. How much does cathodic protection cost?

    • The cost of cathodic protection varies depending on several factors, including:

      1. Size and complexity of the structure

      2. Type of system (galvanic or impressed current)

      3. Environmental conditions

      4. Accessibility of the site

    • We provide customized quotes based on your specific needs and budget.

15. What are the long-term cost benefits of cathodic protection?

    • While there is an initial investment, cathodic protection offers significant long-term cost savings by:

      1. Extending the lifespan of your assets

      2. Reducing maintenance and repair costs

      3. Preventing costly leaks, spills, and environmental damage

16. What is the difference between impressed current and galvanic cathodic protection?

    • Impressed current systems use an external power source to provide the protective current, while galvanic systems rely on the corrosion of sacrificial anodes. The choice depends on factors like the size of the structure, environmental conditions, and cost considerations.

17. How do I know if my cathodic protection system is working properly?

    • Regular monitoring and inspections are essential to ensure your CP system is functioning correctly. We offer comprehensive maintenance programs and conduct various surveys (DCVG, CIPL, CAT) to assess system performance.

18. What are the signs of a failing cathodic protection system?

    • Some signs of a failing system include:

      • Increased corrosion rates

      • Readings outside of the recommended range during monitoring

      • Physical damage to components (rectifiers, anodes, cables)

19. Is cathodic protection environmentally friendly?

    • Yes, cathodic protection is considered an environmentally friendly technology because it prevents corrosion, which can lead to leaks and spills that harm the environment. It also helps extend the life of structures, reducing the need for replacements and conserving resources.

20. Are the materials used in cathodic protection safe?

    • Yes, the materials used in cathodic protection, such as anodes and cables, are designed to be safe for the environment. We prioritize the use of environmentally friendly materials whenever possible.

21. Do you offer cathodic protection solutions for offshore structures?

    • Yes, we have experience in designing and implementing cathodic protection systems for offshore platforms, pipelines, and other marine structures.

22. Can you provide cathodic protection for concrete structures?

    • Yes, we can design and install cathodic protection systems to protect steel reinforcement in concrete structures, such as bridges, parking garages, and marine structures.

23. Do you offer training programs on cathodic protection?

    • Yes, we can provide customized training programs for your personnel on the principles of cathodic protection, system operation, and maintenance.