Benefits of using advanced current interrupter in CP inspection

Cathodic protection systems are essential to prevent corrosion in critical infrastructures such as pipelines, storage tanks, pipelines, storage tanks and other critical infrastructure., subsea structures and buried carbon steel pipelines. The success of these systems depends to a large extent on the inspection projects, the quality of the metrics and, therefore, the components required to carry out these inspections, especially current interrupters.

The use of advanced current interrupter in these systems has become a key solution to ensure operational efficiency, reduced maintenance costs and compliance with international standards such as AMPP API and ISO. In this article, we will explore how the use of circuit breakers in the inspection of cathodic protection systems offers significant benefits, not only in terms of functionality and durability, but also in optimizing operating costs, and why the TECNA stands out as an innovative and reliable option for your projects.

What are current interrupters in inspections to cathodic protection systems?

Electronic devices designed to evaluate the electric current used in cathodic protection systems. Unlike conventional circuit breakers, these incorporate advanced technologies that allow:

• Decisions more precise: system’s optimal need.
• Increased durability: Designed to withstand environmental conditions.
• Synchronization with different brands: They use precise time signals (such as GPS) to synchronize multiple current interrupters (even if they are of different brands) in a distributed system, allowing simultaneous measurements at different points.

Key benefits of using advanced current interrupters for cathodic protection inspection

According to the AMPP report (2022), corrosion generates global costs of $2.5 trillion per year, representing 3.4% of the world’s GDP. Performing inspections with modern cathodic protection equipment, such as advanced current interrupter, can reduce these costs by up to 15%.

Unlike conventional current interrupters, the new cathodic protection current interrupters incorporate advanced technologies that allow:

Optimization of operating costs

• Optimization of electrical energy consumption: Thanks to automatic current regulation.
• Reduced maintenance: Its robust design reduces the frequency of failures and repairs, resulting in savings of up to 30% in annual operating costs, according to recent AMPP studies.

2. Increased system reliability

The advanced current interrupters are manufactured with high quality materials and are subjected to durability. This ensures that the system operates consistently, even in harsh environments, such as marine environments with high salinity. This is crucial for projects that require high reliability.

Increased accuracy in monitoring

These devices include integrated sensors to measure key parameters in real time, such as:

• Current and voltage levels.
• Operating environment conditions.

According to ACICOR, 70% of failures can be prevented with proactive monitoring systems.

4. Adaptability to different projects

The advanced current interrupters are versatile and can be tailored to the specific requirements of each cathodic protection system, whether it is a large-scale pipeline or a smaller structure. This makes them a flexible and scalable investment.

5. Synchronization with other brands.

It allows seamless integration with equipment from different manufacturers, ensuring efficient operation within mixed systems.

6. Contribution to sustainability

The new current interrupters optimize energy use, reducing the carbon footprint of the industrial operation. It also helps reduce environmental impact, reducing the need for frequent replacement of corroded materials and extending the life of critical infrastructure.

7. Compliance with international regulations

Advanced cathodic protection systems facilitate compliance with standards such as ISO 15589-1 and API RP 651, ensuring safety and operability. These certifications ensure compliance with quality standards required in audits and regulatory evaluations.

The current interrupters not only represent a technological breakthrough in the evaluation of cathodic protection systems, but also offer a comprehensive solution to optimize costs, improve reliability and adapt to modern market requirements.

Why choose TECNA current interrupter for your cathodic protection inspection?

The TECNA current interrupter is an example of a current interrupter that combines advanced technology with a robust and reliable design. Its main features include:

• Modular Control: Configuration and monitoring through a Programming Module and an independent Power Module.
• Resilient GPS Cycle: Long range antenna with autonomous backup in case of signal loss.
• Intuitive Interface: Color display and hot keys for efficient settings.
• Compatibility and Customization: Synchronization with multiple brands and ON or OFF start options.
• Durability and Protection: IP67 housing, rugged connectors, heat dissipation and thermal protection system.
• Dual Power: AC/DC power supply for greater operational flexibility.

With TECNA current interrupter, companies can more efficiently perform evaluations of cathodic protection systems, allowing them to achieve greater operational efficiency, extending the useful life of their assets and meeting the most demanding industry standards.

For more information on how the TECNA current interrupter can transform your next project, visit our product page or schedule a technical meeting with our specialists.

References:

• AMPP International (2022). Cost of Corrosion Study. Retrieved from ampp.org.
• AMPP (2023). Materials Protection and Performance Report.
• Energy and Technology Magazine (2023). “Trends in cathodic protection for critical infrastructure.”
• AMPP International (2023). “Corrosion Control Standards.
• – API RP 651. “Cathodic Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks”.
• – ISO 15589-1. “Petroleum and natural gas industries – Cathodic protection of pipeline transportation systems”.
• https://tecna-ice.com/la-proteccion-catodica-explicada/