A User-Friendly Simulation Software for the Cathodic Protection of Large Networks of Buried Pipelines Influenced by DC-Traction Stray Currents

摘要

A simulation software for the cathodic protection (CP) of underground pipeline networks is presented. This software uses an advanced model for the coating quality, taking into account the local soil resistivity, holiday ratio, average holiday size, coating thickness and resistance. The model considers the ohmic voltage drop in the pipes and integrates aboveground structures like rail bars, sub-stations, electric trains or trams and overhead wires. As a result the model gives the pipeto-soil potentials along a pipe, the axial currents flowing through the pipes as well as the radial current densities leaving or entering the pipe walls. The software can deal with all standard kinds of cathodic protection interferences as well as stray currents coming from other CP installations, DC-traction systems, HVDC transmission lines, earthing systems and others. A complex situation with railways interference is investigated and it is found that the numerical calculations are confirmed by qualitative observations.