EP2864523B1 - Cathodic protection system - Google Patents
Cathodic protection system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2864523B1 EP2864523B1 EP13732606.2A EP13732606A EP2864523B1 EP 2864523 B1 EP2864523 B1 EP 2864523B1 EP 13732606 A EP13732606 A EP 13732606A EP 2864523 B1 EP2864523 B1 EP 2864523B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- container
- anode
- hull
- vessel
- isolation valve
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 238000004210 cathodic protection Methods 0.000 title description 16
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 40
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 claims description 25
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 claims description 20
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 claims description 17
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 claims description 17
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 17
- 230000001680 brushing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000007667 floating Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N platinum Chemical compound [Pt] BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 12
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 10
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 9
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 9
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 6
- 229910052697 platinum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 6
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 5
- RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N Titanium Chemical compound [Ti] RTAQQCXQSZGOHL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000010936 titanium Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910052719 titanium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000004593 Epoxy Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000006866 deterioration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910000975 Carbon steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000003373 anti-fouling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010962 carbon steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005536 corrosion prevention Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005684 electric field Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003792 electrolyte Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003628 erosive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229910003455 mixed metal oxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012811 non-conductive material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000010287 polarization Effects 0.000 description 1
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011253 protective coating Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013535 sea water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B59/00—Hull protection specially adapted for vessels; Cleaning devices specially adapted for vessels
- B63B59/04—Preventing hull fouling
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23F—NON-MECHANICAL REMOVAL OF METALLIC MATERIAL FROM SURFACE; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL; MULTI-STEP PROCESSES FOR SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL INVOLVING AT LEAST ONE PROCESS PROVIDED FOR IN CLASS C23 AND AT LEAST ONE PROCESS COVERED BY SUBCLASS C21D OR C22F OR CLASS C25
- C23F13/00—Inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection
- C23F13/02—Inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection cathodic; Selection of conditions, parameters or procedures for cathodic protection, e.g. of electrical conditions
- C23F13/06—Constructional parts, or assemblies of cathodic-protection apparatus
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23F—NON-MECHANICAL REMOVAL OF METALLIC MATERIAL FROM SURFACE; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL; MULTI-STEP PROCESSES FOR SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL INVOLVING AT LEAST ONE PROCESS PROVIDED FOR IN CLASS C23 AND AT LEAST ONE PROCESS COVERED BY SUBCLASS C21D OR C22F OR CLASS C25
- C23F13/00—Inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection
- C23F13/02—Inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection cathodic; Selection of conditions, parameters or procedures for cathodic protection, e.g. of electrical conditions
- C23F13/06—Constructional parts, or assemblies of cathodic-protection apparatus
- C23F13/08—Electrodes specially adapted for inhibiting corrosion by cathodic protection; Manufacture thereof; Conducting electric current thereto
- C23F13/10—Electrodes characterised by the structure
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23F—NON-MECHANICAL REMOVAL OF METALLIC MATERIAL FROM SURFACE; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL; MULTI-STEP PROCESSES FOR SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL INVOLVING AT LEAST ONE PROCESS PROVIDED FOR IN CLASS C23 AND AT LEAST ONE PROCESS COVERED BY SUBCLASS C21D OR C22F OR CLASS C25
- C23F13/00—Inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection
- C23F13/02—Inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection cathodic; Selection of conditions, parameters or procedures for cathodic protection, e.g. of electrical conditions
- C23F13/06—Constructional parts, or assemblies of cathodic-protection apparatus
- C23F13/08—Electrodes specially adapted for inhibiting corrosion by cathodic protection; Manufacture thereof; Conducting electric current thereto
- C23F13/18—Means for supporting electrodes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B17/00—Vessels parts, details, or accessories, not otherwise provided for
- B63B17/0018—Arrangements or devices specially adapted for facilitating access to underwater elements, e.g. to propellers ; Externally attached cofferdams or the like
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C23—COATING METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING MATERIAL WITH METALLIC MATERIAL; CHEMICAL SURFACE TREATMENT; DIFFUSION TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL; COATING BY VACUUM EVAPORATION, BY SPUTTERING, BY ION IMPLANTATION OR BY CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION, IN GENERAL; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL
- C23F—NON-MECHANICAL REMOVAL OF METALLIC MATERIAL FROM SURFACE; INHIBITING CORROSION OF METALLIC MATERIAL OR INCRUSTATION IN GENERAL; MULTI-STEP PROCESSES FOR SURFACE TREATMENT OF METALLIC MATERIAL INVOLVING AT LEAST ONE PROCESS PROVIDED FOR IN CLASS C23 AND AT LEAST ONE PROCESS COVERED BY SUBCLASS C21D OR C22F OR CLASS C25
- C23F2213/00—Aspects of inhibiting corrosion of metals by anodic or cathodic protection
- C23F2213/30—Anodic or cathodic protection specially adapted for a specific object
- C23F2213/31—Immersed structures, e.g. submarine structures
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
- E02B17/00—Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs or offshore constructions; Construction methods therefor
- E02B17/0017—Means for protecting offshore constructions
- E02B17/0026—Means for protecting offshore constructions against corrosion
Definitions
- This invention relates to Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel anode and to a method of attaching a FPSO vessel anode to a hull of a FPSO vessel according to the claims.
- Cathodic protection or ICCP is a widely used and accepted form of corrosion prevention.
- the cathodic protection system is used to reduce the deterioration of a metal exposed to an aqueous electrolyte by lessening the thermodynamic driving force for corrosion.
- a properly maintained cathodic protection system can effectively eliminate metal dissolution and provide a long-term solution to many corrosion problems.
- Most ICCP systems are designed to control the potential of the metal at a fixed value where anodic dissolution of the metal effectively does not occur.
- cathodic protection This is known as controlled-potential cathodic protection and is the method used most extensively for ship hulls and seawater applications. Most FPSOs use a cathodic protection system to protect the hull from external corrosion as protective coatings applied to the hull deteriorate over time.
- the two cathodic protection systems that are most commonly used in the marine industry are (i) a sacrificial anode and (ii) Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP).
- US3488274 describes an electrolytic composite anode and connector.
- GB1467894 describes an anode for cathodic protection system.
- GB902667 describes an anode for cathodic protection of ships.
- US4420382 discloses reducing 'necking' of elongated cathodic protection anodes by placing a nonconductive shield spaced away from the anode.
- GB1347469 discloses an anode assembly comprising a pipe for use in cathodic protection of underwater structures.
- An ICCP system generally uses anodes connected to a Direct Current (DC) power supply.
- Cathodic protection transformer rectifier units are powered by Alternating Current (AC) and are commonly used to provide DC for the ICCP system.
- the transformer rectifier unit output DC negative terminal is normally connected to the ship or other structure to be protected.
- the transformer rectifier unit output DC positive terminal is normally connected to one or more external anodes.
- the DC power supply is provided within the ship and the anodes mounted on the outside of the hull.
- the anodes are generally shaped to reduced drag in the water and are typically mounted flush to the hull.
- the ICCP system presents an effective means of corrosion protection only if it is submerged in a conductive fluid medium. Anodes do not work in air due to their limited charge-carrying capability.
- the ICCP method of cathodic protection involves the direct application of current from an external power source to surfaces prone to corrosion.
- the basic principle of the ICCP method is the vulnerable metal is supplied with a surplus of electrons. The excess electrons reduce the potential of the metal (cathodic polarization) and tend to drive the anodic corrosion reaction in reverse. This results in a reduced corrosion rate.
- ICCP systems are often fitted during the floating production asset's (FPSO) construction or conversion period in a shipyard and are generally designed to meet the specifications required for trading ships.
- ship specifications do not take account of the additional complexities of a floating production unit. These include issues such as the mooring chains and risers and the constantly changing draft of the hull as it loads and discharges. Neither do the ship specifications take account of the deterioration of the coating that might occur over the extended life of the asset at sea compared to a trading ship.
- An FPSO vessel may need to remain at sea for up to twenty-five years without coming into a drydock for repainting or renewal of the cathodic protection system. Subsea intervention to maintain or replace cathodic protection systems is costly and hazardous and involves operational disruption. There are also often regulatory reasons why welding underwater is difficult or not allowable.
- the anode includes:
- the first portion may be connected to a source of an electrical current.
- the electrical current from the source may be transmitted from the source to the first portion and then to the vicinity of the anode. It may be an advantage of the present invention that the second portion has sufficient length so that the first portion is sufficiently far away from the hull of the vessel such that the electrical current is transmitted away from the hull and any electrical current damage to the hull in the vicinity of the anode is mitigated.
- the first and second portions may have a width of from 5 to 100cm, optionally from 5 to 25cm and a total combined length of from 50 to 1000cm and optionally from 100 to 400cm.
- the length of the second portion may be such that electricity discharged from the first portion does not damage the hull coating or metal substrate.
- the length of the second portion may be equal to or more than 25cm, optionally equal to or more than 150cm, and may be equal to or more than 200cm in length.
- the first portion may have an electrically conductive outer surface.
- the second portion may have an electrically insulative outer surface.
- the electrically conductive first portion may comprise a material that has an electrical conductivity of more than or equal to 0.02 x 10 6 / cm ohms ( ⁇ ).
- the electrically insulative second portion may comprise a material that has an electrical conductivity of less than or equal to 0.001 x 10 6 / cm ohms ( ⁇ ).
- the connector is typically electrically insulated from the first portion.
- the connector may have a flange portion.
- the width of the flange portion may be greater than the width of the second portion.
- the flange may have an engagement surface facing the first portion.
- the engagement surface may include a seal.
- the seal may commonly be used to seal the anode to an internal surface of a vessel, for example the hull.
- the first and/or second portions and/or connector may be cylindrical.
- the width may be the diameter of the cylinder.
- the connector may include a threaded portion on its outer surface for cooperation with another threaded portion on a surface or component of the hull.
- the second portion may perform the same function as a dielectric shield.
- the second portion may reduce the possibility of shorting of electrical current from the anode to the hull of the vessel adjacent to the anode. This may have the advantage of allowing the anodes to be used to distribute electrical charge more widely and/or may reduce the occurrence of the localised breakdown of coating(s) on the hull of the vessel in the proximity of the anode.
- the second portion may be made of plastic.
- the second portion may be referred to as a boss.
- the anode according to the present invention may be resistant to corrosion.
- the anode may have one or more of a low resistance to current flow, physical toughness, a low rate of consumption, and a low cost of production.
- the anode may comprise platinum.
- the anode may comprise a mixed metal oxide.
- the consumption of platinum, that is the degradation of the platinum over time is low compared to other metals, for example carbon steel, aluminium and zinc.
- the anode may alternatively comprise titanium.
- the titanium may be coated with a layer of platinum.
- the layer of platinum may be from 0.1 to 5mm, optionally from 0.5 to 5mm thick.
- an apparatus for controlling the corrosion of the hull of the vessel including:
- the pressure-tight container holds the anode against the inside surface of the hull so that the anode can be installed and maintained from inside the vessel whilst the vessel is in the water and/or in operation or at station. This may mitigate the need for diver or ROV intervention and/or taking the vessel into a drydock during installation or maintenance or replacement of the apparatus.
- the engagement surface of the pressure-tight container may have a threaded portion.
- One end of the anode may have a threaded portion that may cooperate with the threaded portion of the pressure-tight container.
- the threaded portion of the anode may comprise a connector.
- the anode of the present invention may mitigate the need for a dielectric shield.
- a dielectric shield Using other ICCP systems the anode must be surrounded by a thick shielding material (often referred to as "capastic coating” or “capastic epoxy”).
- the coating typically comprises a high-solids epoxy with high dielectric strength.
- the shielding mitigates shorting of the anode electrical current to the hull near the anode and aids in wider current distribution to the hull.
- the dielectric shield includes an inner and outer shield and covers an area around the anode.
- the shield is top coated with anti-corrosive and anti-fouling coatings. The shielding deteriorates over time and eventually requires replacement.
- the anode of the present invention may mitigate these disadvantages.
- pressure-tight refers to the ability of the pressure-tight container to withstand an internal pressure of from 0 to 21 bar, normally from 0 to 11 bar and typically from 0 to 3.5 bar without leakage therefrom.
- the apparatus may include one or more reference electrodes.
- the reference electrodes may be used remotely monitor the electrical current supplied by the anode and can be used to control the electrical current delivered by the transformer rectifier to the anode.
- the apparatus may include a power supply.
- the power supply is typically provided by an electrical power generator on-board the vessel.
- the apparatus may include a transformer rectifier to convert Alternative Current (AC) into Direct Current (DC).
- AC Alternative Current
- DC Direct Current
- the electrical power generator will typically generate an AC signal and the anode will typically generate a DC signal.
- the power supply may be transported from the electrical power generator to the anode by cable.
- the cable may pass through a valve mounted on an outer wall of the pressure-tight container.
- the valve may provide a pressure-tight seal and therefore may mitigate any escape of water or other fluid through the valve along the path of the cable from outside the hull of the vessel, through the pressure-tight container and into the vessel.
- valve through which the cable passes, can be shut or closed in the event of a leak or penetration of water into the pressure-tight container before the water leaks into the inside of the hull of the vessel.
- the hull of the vessel may comprise steel.
- the hull may be susceptible to one or more of corrosion, erosion and any other form of degradation that weakens or damages the structural integrity of the hull.
- the pressure-tight container may comprise a first and a second pressure-tight container.
- the first pressure-tight container may be a stub pipe.
- the first pressure-tight container may have a second mating surface for mating with a first mating surface of the second pressure-tight container.
- the second mating surface of the first pressure-tight container and the first mating surface of the second pressure-tight container may be a flange with a seal and may include apertures through which bolts can be passed to secure or hold the two flanges together, generating a pressure-tight seal there between.
- the pressure-tight container may have a mating surface for mating with the hull of the vessel.
- the mating surface of the pressure-tight container may be welded to the inside surface of the hull.
- the pressure-tight container may include one or more drain valves and/or pressure gauges. These allow the fluid pressure inside the pressure-tight container to be monitored and controlled by an operator, thereby ensuring safe operation of the apparatus and continuous safe operation of the vessel.
- the threaded portion of the anode, the connector may include a seal wherein in use there may be a pressure-tight seal between the threaded portion of the anode and the hull of the vessel, when the threaded portion of the anode is mated against the hull, the threaded portion of the anode holding the anode in place relative to the pressure-tight container.
- the pressure-tight container(s) may be cylindrical.
- the seals may be o-rings.
- the pressure-tight container may have a second mating surface.
- a blanking plate may be secured to the second mating surface of the pressure-tight container.
- the isolation valve and the blanking plate may provide two further barriers against potential water escape through the hull and apparatus and into the vessel.
- the apparatus for controlling the corrosion of a hull of a vessel may be suitable for controlling the corrosion of subsea metal structures, including for example offshore oil and/or gas platforms.
- a method of attaching a FPSO vessel anode to the hull of a FPSO vessel as defined in the claims includes the steps of:
- the cutting device is typically operable through the isolation valve when the isolation valve is open.
- the method may include the step of pulling the cutting device out through the through-bore of the container through the plug, such that the cutting device remains in the plug but is clear of the isolation valve.
- the method may include the steps of closing the isolation valve; and removing the cutting device from the container.
- the method may include the step of pushing a brushing device in through the plug; opening the isolation valve; and pushing the brushing device through the through-bore of the container, one end the brushing device extending beyond the container and the other end being in contact with the hole in the hull of the vessel.
- the brushing device may be used to remove swarf from around edges of the hole.
- the brushing device may be a wire brush.
- the method may include the steps of pushing an anode through the plug; opening the isolation valve in the container; pushing the anode in through the through-bore of the container and out through the hole in the hull of the vessel.
- the method may include the step of securing the anode to the container thereby sealing the anode to the hull of the vessel.
- the method may include the steps of attaching an electrical cable through a valve mounted on an outer wall of the container and connecting the electrical cable to the anode to provide electrical communication between the anode and inside the hull of the vessel.
- the method may include the steps of closing the isolation valve; removing the plug from the container; and fitting a blanking plate to the remaining open end of the container.
- the cutting device may be a hollow cutting device.
- the cutting device may cut a core from the hull.
- the cutting device may cut a hole in the hull having a diameter of from 5 to 100 cm, optionally from 5 to 25cm.
- the seal between the anode and the hull of the vessel is typically pressure-tight and therefore also water-tight.
- the step of attaching the container to an inside surface of a hull of a vessel may include welding.
- the method may include the step of one or more pressure tests to check that the container or other component thereof will withstand the water pressure exerted on them and the seals between the container and the hull by the water outside the hull of the vessel.
- the method may include the step of draining water or another fluid from the container before the isolation valve is opened.
- the container may comprise a first container and a second container.
- the first container may be attached to an inside surface of the hull of the vessel, the first container having a through-bore and two open ends, one of the open ends being attached to the inside surface.
- the second container may be attached to the remaining open end of the first container, the second container including the isolation valve and having a through-bore and two open ends, one of the open ends of the second container being attached to the remaining open end of the first container.
- the plug may be a 'hot tap' type connection.
- the plug typically fits the remaining open end of the container, providing a pressure-tight seal against the container.
- the aperture in the plug is typically at its centre through which the cutting device, brushing device and/or anode can be pushed and pulled.
- the aperture may be sized such that there is a pressure-tight seal between the cutting device and anode and the plug.
- Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of the apparatus for controlling the corrosion of a hull of a vessel with an anode according to the present invention.
- Figure 1 shows an apparatus 10 for controlling the corrosion of a hull 12 of a vessel (not shown).
- the anode 30 protrudes through and outside 14 the hull 12 through a hole 18 in the hull 12.
- the first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers are inside 16 the hull 12.
- Figure 1 shows the apparatus 10 that is left attached to the hull 12 after installation of the anode 30.
- the anode 30 has a first portion 32 that has an electrically conductive outer surface 33 comprising an electrically conductive material and an anode connection point 37 that is in electrical communication with a power source (not shown) inside 16 the hull 12.
- a second portion 34 (or anode standoff) of the anode 30 has an electrically insulative outer surface 35 comprising a non-conductive material.
- a connector 36 at the end of the second portion of the anode 34 has a threaded outer surface that is electrically insulative. The threaded outer surface of the connector 36 cooperates with a threaded surface on the inside 54 of the first pressure-tight container 50.
- the threaded surfaces may be tapered and may therefore not require any additional means of sealing.
- the anode 30 is sealed against the hull 12 using an o-ring 38 that seals around the hole 18 in the hull 12.
- the first pressure-tight container 50 is welded 51 at one end to an inside surface 52 of the hull 12. At the other end of the first pressure-tight container 50 there is a flange 53. Inside 54 the first pressure-tight container 50 is hollow.
- the second pressure-tight container 70 has flanges 71 and 72 at both ends.
- the flange 53 of the first pressure-tight container 50 is attached to the flange 71 of the second pressure-tight container 70.
- Inside 76 the second pressure-tight container 70 is hollow.
- the second pressure-tight container 70 also has an isolation valve 73 that can be raised and lowered (opened and closed) in the container 70 to provide or prevent fluid communication between the flanges 71 and 72 at the two ends of the container 70.
- the isolation valve is moved using a wheel 74 and gearing system (not shown).
- Figure 1 shows the isolation valve 73 in its closed position and a blanking plate 80 attached to the second pressure-tight container 70.
- the blanking plate 80 has a flange 81 that is attached to the flange 72 of the second pressure-tight container 70.
- the first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers have drain valves 55, 75 respectively. These drain valves 55, 75 allow the user to drain water from the first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers when the isolation valve 73 is closed and the blanking plate 80 is attached to the second pressure-tight container 70.
- the first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers are cylindrical.
- the first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers have an internal diameter of 20cm and a total combined length of 100cm.
- the first pressure-tight container 50 extends 50cm beyond the second pressure-tight container 70, away from the hull 12.
- the first portion 32 of the anode 30 is made of titanium and is coated with a layer of platinum (not shown).
- the second portion 34 of the anode 30 is made of polyethylene. In an alternative embodiment the second portion 34 is made of plastic.
- the first 32 and second 34 portions of the anode 30 make up a composite anode.
- the insulating stand-off arrangement, provided by the second portion 34 provides the required electrical field and reduces the occurrence of electrical charge shorting back from the first portion 32 of the anode 30 to the hull 12 in the proximity of the anode 30.
- the insulating stand-off or second portion 34 alleviates the need for a dielectric shield around the anode 30. This allows the anode 30 to be installed either during the construction phase, or whilst the vessel (not shown) is in the water. This is particularly important when fitting the system to a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) type vessel which is required to stay on station at sea for an extended period without going into drydock.
- FPSO Floating Production, Storage and Offloading
- a valve 90 is mounted on the first pressure-tight container 50.
- the valve 90 provides a pressure-tight seal around the electrical cable 91a, 91b that passes from the anode connection point 37, outside the hull 12 of the vessel (not shown), through the first pressure-tight container 50 and on into the inside 16 of the hull 12.
- the anode described above and method of installing the anode is designed such that the anode can be installed working from inside the vessel and whilst the vessel remains in the water. It will however be appreciated by the skilled reader that the anode could be installed and the method of installing the anode of the present invention could be used from outside the hull of the vessel, for example when the vessel is in a drydock or using a diver when the vessel is in water.
- anode to the hull of a vessel according to the present invention could likewise be used to attach other devices to the hull of the vessel, these devices including one or more of sensors, reference electrodes, cameras and sacrificial anodes.
- the stub pipe and isolation valve body may have a square rather than cylindrical cross-section.
Description
- This invention relates to Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel anode and to a method of attaching a FPSO vessel anode to a hull of a FPSO vessel according to the claims. Cathodic protection or ICCP is a widely used and accepted form of corrosion prevention. The cathodic protection system is used to reduce the deterioration of a metal exposed to an aqueous electrolyte by lessening the thermodynamic driving force for corrosion. A properly maintained cathodic protection system can effectively eliminate metal dissolution and provide a long-term solution to many corrosion problems. Most ICCP systems are designed to control the potential of the metal at a fixed value where anodic dissolution of the metal effectively does not occur. This is known as controlled-potential cathodic protection and is the method used most extensively for ship hulls and seawater applications. Most FPSOs use a cathodic protection system to protect the hull from external corrosion as protective coatings applied to the hull deteriorate over time.
- The two cathodic protection systems that are most commonly used in the marine industry are (i) a sacrificial anode and (ii) Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP).
US3488274 describes an electrolytic composite anode and connector.GB1467894 GB902667 US4420382 discloses reducing 'necking' of elongated cathodic protection anodes by placing a nonconductive shield spaced away from the anode.GB1347469 - An ICCP system generally uses anodes connected to a Direct Current (DC) power supply. Cathodic protection transformer rectifier units are powered by Alternating Current (AC) and are commonly used to provide DC for the ICCP system. The transformer rectifier unit output DC negative terminal is normally connected to the ship or other structure to be protected. The transformer rectifier unit output DC positive terminal is normally connected to one or more external anodes.
- On a ship the DC power supply is provided within the ship and the anodes mounted on the outside of the hull. The anodes are generally shaped to reduced drag in the water and are typically mounted flush to the hull.
- The ICCP system presents an effective means of corrosion protection only if it is submerged in a conductive fluid medium. Anodes do not work in air due to their limited charge-carrying capability.
- The ICCP method of cathodic protection involves the direct application of current from an external power source to surfaces prone to corrosion. The basic principle of the ICCP method is the vulnerable metal is supplied with a surplus of electrons. The excess electrons reduce the potential of the metal (cathodic polarization) and tend to drive the anodic corrosion reaction in reverse. This results in a reduced corrosion rate.
- ICCP systems are often fitted during the floating production asset's (FPSO) construction or conversion period in a shipyard and are generally designed to meet the specifications required for trading ships. However, ship specifications do not take account of the additional complexities of a floating production unit. These include issues such as the mooring chains and risers and the constantly changing draft of the hull as it loads and discharges. Neither do the ship specifications take account of the deterioration of the coating that might occur over the extended life of the asset at sea compared to a trading ship.
- Although ships may periodically be removed from the water for inspections and maintenance, this process of drydocking the ship is expensive. In the case of FPSOs the process is significantly more expensive and further loss is incurred because of deferred production. It may therefore be beneficial if the installation and/or maintenance of the ICCP system on a ship did not rely on the removal of the ship from the water.
- An FPSO vessel may need to remain at sea for up to twenty-five years without coming into a drydock for repainting or renewal of the cathodic protection system. Subsea intervention to maintain or replace cathodic protection systems is costly and hazardous and involves operational disruption. There are also often regulatory reasons why welding underwater is difficult or not allowable.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of installing and/or maintaining and/or replacing an ICCP system for controlling the corrosion of the hull of a vessel whilst it is in the water.
- According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel anode for controlling the corrosion of a hull of a FPSO vessel, as defined in the claims. In at least some examples, the anode includes:
- a first portion being electrically conductive;
- a second portion being electrically insulative; and
- a connector being electrically insulative;
- wherein the connector is attached to an end of the second portion and the first portion is attached at an opposite end of the second portion, the first and second portions having a width of equal to or more than 5cm and a total combined length of equal to or more than 100cm.
- The first portion may be connected to a source of an electrical current. The electrical current from the source may be transmitted from the source to the first portion and then to the vicinity of the anode. It may be an advantage of the present invention that the second portion has sufficient length so that the first portion is sufficiently far away from the hull of the vessel such that the electrical current is transmitted away from the hull and any electrical current damage to the hull in the vicinity of the anode is mitigated.
- The first and second portions may have a width of from 5 to 100cm, optionally from 5 to 25cm and a total combined length of from 50 to 1000cm and optionally from 100 to 400cm. The length of the second portion may be such that electricity discharged from the first portion does not damage the hull coating or metal substrate. The length of the second portion may be equal to or more than 25cm, optionally equal to or more than 150cm, and may be equal to or more than 200cm in length.
- The first portion may have an electrically conductive outer surface. The second portion may have an electrically insulative outer surface.
- The electrically conductive first portion may comprise a material that has an electrical conductivity of more than or equal to 0.02 x 106 / cm ohms (Ω). The electrically insulative second portion may comprise a material that has an electrical conductivity of less than or equal to 0.001 x 106 / cm ohms (Ω).
- The connector is typically electrically insulated from the first portion.
- The connector may have a flange portion. The width of the flange portion may be greater than the width of the second portion. The flange may have an engagement surface facing the first portion. The engagement surface may include a seal. The seal may commonly be used to seal the anode to an internal surface of a vessel, for example the hull.
- The first and/or second portions and/or connector may be cylindrical. The width may be the diameter of the cylinder. When the connector is cylindrical in shape the connector may include a threaded portion on its outer surface for cooperation with another threaded portion on a surface or component of the hull.
- The second portion may perform the same function as a dielectric shield. The second portion may reduce the possibility of shorting of electrical current from the anode to the hull of the vessel adjacent to the anode. This may have the advantage of allowing the anodes to be used to distribute electrical charge more widely and/or may reduce the occurrence of the localised breakdown of coating(s) on the hull of the vessel in the proximity of the anode.
- The second portion may be made of plastic. The second portion may be referred to as a boss.
- The anode according to the present invention may be resistant to corrosion. The anode may have one or more of a low resistance to current flow, physical toughness, a low rate of consumption, and a low cost of production.
- The anode may comprise platinum. In an alternative embodiment the anode may comprise a mixed metal oxide. The consumption of platinum, that is the degradation of the platinum over time is low compared to other metals, for example carbon steel, aluminium and zinc. The anode may alternatively comprise titanium. The titanium may be coated with a layer of platinum. The layer of platinum may be from 0.1 to 5mm, optionally from 0.5 to 5mm thick.
- There may be provided an apparatus for controlling the corrosion of the hull of the vessel, the apparatus including:
- the anode as defined in the claims; and
- a pressure-tight container;
- wherein the pressure-tight container has an engagement surface for engagement with the anode and an isolation valve and wherein in use, the pressure-tight container is attached to an inside surface of the hull.
- It may be an advantage of the present disclosure that the pressure-tight container holds the anode against the inside surface of the hull so that the anode can be installed and maintained from inside the vessel whilst the vessel is in the water and/or in operation or at station. This may mitigate the need for diver or ROV intervention and/or taking the vessel into a drydock during installation or maintenance or replacement of the apparatus.
- The engagement surface of the pressure-tight container may have a threaded portion. One end of the anode may have a threaded portion that may cooperate with the threaded portion of the pressure-tight container. The threaded portion of the anode may comprise a connector.
- The anode of the present invention may mitigate the need for a dielectric shield. Using other ICCP systems the anode must be surrounded by a thick shielding material (often referred to as "capastic coating" or "capastic epoxy"). The coating typically comprises a high-solids epoxy with high dielectric strength. The shielding mitigates shorting of the anode electrical current to the hull near the anode and aids in wider current distribution to the hull. The dielectric shield includes an inner and outer shield and covers an area around the anode. The shield is top coated with anti-corrosive and anti-fouling coatings. The shielding deteriorates over time and eventually requires replacement. The anode of the present invention may mitigate these disadvantages.
- The term pressure-tight refers to the ability of the pressure-tight container to withstand an internal pressure of from 0 to 21 bar, normally from 0 to 11 bar and typically from 0 to 3.5 bar without leakage therefrom.
- The apparatus may include one or more reference electrodes. The reference electrodes may be used remotely monitor the electrical current supplied by the anode and can be used to control the electrical current delivered by the transformer rectifier to the anode.
- The apparatus may include a power supply. The power supply is typically provided by an electrical power generator on-board the vessel. The apparatus may include a transformer rectifier to convert Alternative Current (AC) into Direct Current (DC). The electrical power generator will typically generate an AC signal and the anode will typically generate a DC signal.
- The power supply may be transported from the electrical power generator to the anode by cable. The cable may pass through a valve mounted on an outer wall of the pressure-tight container. The valve may provide a pressure-tight seal and therefore may mitigate any escape of water or other fluid through the valve along the path of the cable from outside the hull of the vessel, through the pressure-tight container and into the vessel.
- It may be an advantage of the present invention that the valve, through which the cable passes, can be shut or closed in the event of a leak or penetration of water into the pressure-tight container before the water leaks into the inside of the hull of the vessel.
- The hull of the vessel may comprise steel. The hull may be susceptible to one or more of corrosion, erosion and any other form of degradation that weakens or damages the structural integrity of the hull.
- The pressure-tight container may comprise a first and a second pressure-tight container. The first pressure-tight container may be a stub pipe. The first pressure-tight container may have a second mating surface for mating with a first mating surface of the second pressure-tight container. The second mating surface of the first pressure-tight container and the first mating surface of the second pressure-tight container may be a flange with a seal and may include apertures through which bolts can be passed to secure or hold the two flanges together, generating a pressure-tight seal there between.
- The pressure-tight container may have a mating surface for mating with the hull of the vessel. The mating surface of the pressure-tight container may be welded to the inside surface of the hull.
- The pressure-tight container may include one or more drain valves and/or pressure gauges. These allow the fluid pressure inside the pressure-tight container to be monitored and controlled by an operator, thereby ensuring safe operation of the apparatus and continuous safe operation of the vessel.
- The threaded portion of the anode, the connector, may include a seal wherein in use there may be a pressure-tight seal between the threaded portion of the anode and the hull of the vessel, when the threaded portion of the anode is mated against the hull, the threaded portion of the anode holding the anode in place relative to the pressure-tight container.
- The pressure-tight container(s) may be cylindrical. The seals may be o-rings.
- The pressure-tight container may have a second mating surface. A blanking plate may be secured to the second mating surface of the pressure-tight container. The isolation valve and the blanking plate may provide two further barriers against potential water escape through the hull and apparatus and into the vessel.
- The apparatus for controlling the corrosion of a hull of a vessel may be suitable for controlling the corrosion of subsea metal structures, including for example offshore oil and/or gas platforms.
- Features of the second aspect of the present disclosure may be incorporated into the first aspect of the present invention and vice versa.
- According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of attaching a FPSO vessel anode to the hull of a FPSO vessel as defined in the claims. In at least some examples, the method includes the steps of:
- attaching a container to an inside surface of the hull of the vessel, the container having a through-bore and two open ends, one of the open ends being attached to the inside surface, the container including an isolation valve;
- fitting a plug in the remaining open end of the container, the plug having an aperture;
- pushing a cutting device in through the plug and through-bore of the container, one end the cutting device extending beyond the container and the other end being in contact with the hull of the vessel; and
- cutting a hole in the hull of the vessel using the cutting device, operated from outside the container, and pushing the anode according to the first aspect out through the hole in the hull of the vessel.
- It may be an advantage of the method according to the present invention that the cost of taking a vessel to a drydock can be saved without compromising on safety and/or the integrity of the hull.
- The cutting device is typically operable through the isolation valve when the isolation valve is open.
- The method may include the step of pulling the cutting device out through the through-bore of the container through the plug, such that the cutting device remains in the plug but is clear of the isolation valve.
- The method may include the steps of closing the isolation valve; and removing the cutting device from the container.
- The method may include the step of pushing a brushing device in through the plug; opening the isolation valve; and pushing the brushing device through the through-bore of the container, one end the brushing device extending beyond the container and the other end being in contact with the hole in the hull of the vessel. The brushing device may be used to remove swarf from around edges of the hole. The brushing device may be a wire brush.
- The method may include the steps of pushing an anode through the plug; opening the isolation valve in the container; pushing the anode in through the through-bore of the container and out through the hole in the hull of the vessel.
- The method may include the step of securing the anode to the container thereby sealing the anode to the hull of the vessel.
- The method may include the steps of attaching an electrical cable through a valve mounted on an outer wall of the container and connecting the electrical cable to the anode to provide electrical communication between the anode and inside the hull of the vessel.
- The method may include the steps of closing the isolation valve; removing the plug from the container; and fitting a blanking plate to the remaining open end of the container.
- The cutting device may be a hollow cutting device. The cutting device may cut a core from the hull. The cutting device may cut a hole in the hull having a diameter of from 5 to 100 cm, optionally from 5 to 25cm.
- The seal between the anode and the hull of the vessel is typically pressure-tight and therefore also water-tight.
- The step of attaching the container to an inside surface of a hull of a vessel may include welding.
- The method may include the step of one or more pressure tests to check that the container or other component thereof will withstand the water pressure exerted on them and the seals between the container and the hull by the water outside the hull of the vessel.
- The method may include the step of draining water or another fluid from the container before the isolation valve is opened.
- The container may comprise a first container and a second container. The first container may be attached to an inside surface of the hull of the vessel, the first container having a through-bore and two open ends, one of the open ends being attached to the inside surface. The second container may be attached to the remaining open end of the first container, the second container including the isolation valve and having a through-bore and two open ends, one of the open ends of the second container being attached to the remaining open end of the first container.
- The plug may be a 'hot tap' type connection. The plug typically fits the remaining open end of the container, providing a pressure-tight seal against the container. The aperture in the plug is typically at its centre through which the cutting device, brushing device and/or anode can be pushed and pulled. The aperture may be sized such that there is a pressure-tight seal between the cutting device and anode and the plug.
- Embodiments of the invention are further described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of the apparatus for controlling the corrosion of a hull of a vessel with an anode according to the present invention. -
Figure 1 shows anapparatus 10 for controlling the corrosion of ahull 12 of a vessel (not shown). Theanode 30 protrudes through and outside 14 thehull 12 through ahole 18 in thehull 12. The first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers are inside 16 thehull 12.Figure 1 shows theapparatus 10 that is left attached to thehull 12 after installation of theanode 30. - The
anode 30 has afirst portion 32 that has an electrically conductiveouter surface 33 comprising an electrically conductive material and ananode connection point 37 that is in electrical communication with a power source (not shown) inside 16 thehull 12. A second portion 34 (or anode standoff) of theanode 30 has an electrically insulativeouter surface 35 comprising a non-conductive material. Aconnector 36 at the end of the second portion of theanode 34 has a threaded outer surface that is electrically insulative. The threaded outer surface of theconnector 36 cooperates with a threaded surface on the inside 54 of the first pressure-tight container 50. - The threaded surfaces may be tapered and may therefore not require any additional means of sealing. In
Figure 1 however, theanode 30 is sealed against thehull 12 using an o-ring 38 that seals around thehole 18 in thehull 12. - The first pressure-
tight container 50 is welded 51 at one end to aninside surface 52 of thehull 12. At the other end of the first pressure-tight container 50 there is aflange 53. Inside 54 the first pressure-tight container 50 is hollow. - The second pressure-tight container 70 has
flanges flange 53 of the first pressure-tight container 50 is attached to theflange 71 of the second pressure-tight container 70. Inside 76 the second pressure-tight container 70 is hollow. - The second pressure-tight container 70 also has an
isolation valve 73 that can be raised and lowered (opened and closed) in the container 70 to provide or prevent fluid communication between theflanges wheel 74 and gearing system (not shown). -
Figure 1 shows theisolation valve 73 in its closed position and a blankingplate 80 attached to the second pressure-tight container 70. The blankingplate 80 has aflange 81 that is attached to theflange 72 of the second pressure-tight container 70. - The first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers have
drain valves drain valves isolation valve 73 is closed and the blankingplate 80 is attached to the second pressure-tight container 70. - The first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers are cylindrical. The first 50 and second 70 pressure-tight containers have an internal diameter of 20cm and a total combined length of 100cm. The first pressure-
tight container 50 extends 50cm beyond the second pressure-tight container 70, away from thehull 12. - The
first portion 32 of theanode 30 is made of titanium and is coated with a layer of platinum (not shown). Thesecond portion 34 of theanode 30 is made of polyethylene. In an alternative embodiment thesecond portion 34 is made of plastic. - The first 32 and second 34 portions of the
anode 30 make up a composite anode. The insulating stand-off arrangement, provided by thesecond portion 34, provides the required electrical field and reduces the occurrence of electrical charge shorting back from thefirst portion 32 of theanode 30 to thehull 12 in the proximity of theanode 30. The insulating stand-off orsecond portion 34 alleviates the need for a dielectric shield around theanode 30. This allows theanode 30 to be installed either during the construction phase, or whilst the vessel (not shown) is in the water. This is particularly important when fitting the system to a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) type vessel which is required to stay on station at sea for an extended period without going into drydock. - A
valve 90 is mounted on the first pressure-tight container 50. Thevalve 90 provides a pressure-tight seal around theelectrical cable anode connection point 37, outside thehull 12 of the vessel (not shown), through the first pressure-tight container 50 and on into the inside 16 of thehull 12. - The anode described above and method of installing the anode is designed such that the anode can be installed working from inside the vessel and whilst the vessel remains in the water. It will however be appreciated by the skilled reader that the anode could be installed and the method of installing the anode of the present invention could be used from outside the hull of the vessel, for example when the vessel is in a drydock or using a diver when the vessel is in water.
- It will also be appreciated by the skilled reader that the method of attaching an anode to the hull of a vessel according to the present invention could likewise be used to attach other devices to the hull of the vessel, these devices including one or more of sensors, reference electrodes, cameras and sacrificial anodes.
- Improvements and modifications may be made to the apparatus shown in
Figure 1 . For example, the stub pipe and isolation valve body may have a square rather than cylindrical cross-section.
Claims (12)
- A Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel anode (30) for controlling the corrosion of a hull (12) of a FPSO vessel, the anode including:a first portion (32) being electrically conductive;a second portion (34) being electrically insulative; anda connector (36) being electrically insulative;wherein the connector (36) is attached to an end of the second portion (34) and the first portion (32) is attached at an opposite end of the second portion (34) from the connector , the first and second portions (32, 34) each having a width of equal to or more than 5cm and a total combined length of equal to or more than 100cm; andthe anode (30) being configured for protruding through and outside the hull (12) through a hole (18) in the hull (12).
- An FPSO vessel anode (30) according to claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive first portion (32) comprises a material that has an electrical conductivity of more than or equal to 0.02 x 106 / cm ohms (Ω) and the electrically insulative second portion (34) comprises a material that has an electrical conductivity of less than or equal to 0.001 x 106 / cm ohms (Ω).
- A method of attaching a FPSO vessel anode (30) according to claim 1 or 2 to a hull (12) of a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, the method including the steps of:attaching a container (50) to an inside surface (52) of the hull of the vessel, the container having a through-bore and two open ends, one of the open ends being attached to the inside surface of the hull, the container including an isolation valve (73);fitting a plug in the remaining open end of the container, the plug having an aperture;pushing a cutting device in through the plug and through-bore of the container, one end the cutting device extending beyond the container and the other end being in contact with the hull of the vessel;cutting the hole (18) in the hull of the vessel using the cutting device, operated from outside the container; andpushing the anode according to claim 1 or 2 out through the hole in the hull of the vessel.
- A method according to claim 3, wherein the cutting device is operable through the isolation valve (73) when the isolation valve is open.
- A method according to claim 4, wherein the method further includes the steps of removing the cutting device from the container (50); and closing the isolation valve (73).
- A method according to any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the method further includes the steps of pushing a brushing device in through the aperture in the plug; opening the isolation valve (73); and pushing the brushing device through the through-bore of the container (50), one end the brushing device extending beyond the container and the other end being in contact with the hole (18) in the hull (12) of the vessel.
- A method according to any of claims 3 to 6, wherein the method includes the steps of pushing the anode (30) in through the aperture in the plug; opening the isolation valve (73); and pushing the anode through the through-bore of the container (50).
- A method according to claim 5, wherein the method includes the step of securing the anode (30) to the container (50) thereby sealing the anode to the hull (12) of the vessel.
- A method according to any of claims 3 to 8, wherein the method includes the steps of attaching an electrical cable (91a, 91b) through a valve (90) mounted on an outer wall of the container (50) and connecting the electrical cable to the anode (30) to provide electrical communication between the anode and inside (16) the hull (12) of the vessel.
- A method according to any of claims 3 to 9, wherein the method includes the steps of closing the isolation valve (73); removing the plug from the container (50); and fitting a blanking plate (80) to the remaining open end of the container.
- A method according to any of claims 3 to 10, wherein the step of attaching the container (50) to the inside surface (52) of the hull (12) of the vessel includes welding (51).
- A method according to any of claims 3 to 11, wherein the method includes the step of draining one or more of water and another fluid from the container (50) before the isolation valve (73) is opened.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GBGB1210929.4A GB201210929D0 (en) | 2012-06-20 | 2012-06-20 | Apparatus and method |
PCT/GB2013/051627 WO2013190314A1 (en) | 2012-06-20 | 2013-06-20 | Cathodic protection system |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2864523A1 EP2864523A1 (en) | 2015-04-29 |
EP2864523B1 true EP2864523B1 (en) | 2022-03-23 |
Family
ID=46641218
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP13732606.2A Active EP2864523B1 (en) | 2012-06-20 | 2013-06-20 | Cathodic protection system |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2864523B1 (en) |
DK (1) | DK2864523T3 (en) |
GB (1) | GB201210929D0 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2013190314A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR3029212B1 (en) * | 2014-11-27 | 2019-05-03 | Electricite De France | ANTICORROSIVE TREATMENT OF IMMERING CARRIER STRUCTURES |
NL2031333B1 (en) * | 2022-03-18 | 2023-09-29 | Corrosion & Water Control Shared Services B V | Cathodic protection device for use in an Impressed Current Cathodic Protection system |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB1347469A (en) * | 1970-12-14 | 1974-02-27 | Corrosion Welding Eng Ltd | Anodes for cathodic protection |
US4420382A (en) * | 1980-01-18 | 1983-12-13 | Alcan International Limited | Method for controlling end effect on anodes used for cathodic protection and other applications |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB902667A (en) * | 1958-12-05 | 1962-08-09 | Herman Solomon Preiser | Anode for cathodic protection of ships |
US3488274A (en) * | 1967-05-31 | 1970-01-06 | Us Navy | Electrolytic composite anode and connector |
NL7304591A (en) * | 1973-04-03 | 1974-10-07 | ||
US4970980A (en) * | 1989-06-26 | 1990-11-20 | Eisner Nathan A | Inflatable bumper system for water craft |
US20070029191A1 (en) * | 2005-07-29 | 2007-02-08 | Sewell Peter F | Sacrificial anode holder and related anodes |
-
2012
- 2012-06-20 GB GBGB1210929.4A patent/GB201210929D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2013
- 2013-06-20 EP EP13732606.2A patent/EP2864523B1/en active Active
- 2013-06-20 WO PCT/GB2013/051627 patent/WO2013190314A1/en unknown
- 2013-06-20 DK DK13732606.2T patent/DK2864523T3/en active
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB1347469A (en) * | 1970-12-14 | 1974-02-27 | Corrosion Welding Eng Ltd | Anodes for cathodic protection |
US4420382A (en) * | 1980-01-18 | 1983-12-13 | Alcan International Limited | Method for controlling end effect on anodes used for cathodic protection and other applications |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB201210929D0 (en) | 2012-08-01 |
DK2864523T3 (en) | 2022-06-27 |
WO2013190314A1 (en) | 2013-12-27 |
EP2864523A1 (en) | 2015-04-29 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
Tezdogan et al. | An overview of marine corrosion protection with a focus on cathodic protection and coatings | |
CN102586785B (en) | For the system and method for the galvanic protection of submarine well assembly | |
EP2300638B1 (en) | A marine surface vessel and a method for a sacrificial anode in a marine construction | |
EP2906735B1 (en) | System and method for providing corrosion protection of metallic structure using time varying electromagnetic wave | |
Bahadori | Cathodic corrosion protection systems: a guide for oil and gas industries | |
EP2864523B1 (en) | Cathodic protection system | |
EP1974074A2 (en) | Immersed electrode assembly | |
EP3020851B1 (en) | A marine cathodic protection system | |
Mainier et al. | Ship hull corrosion caused by default and lack of maintenance on the impressed current cathodic protection | |
CN102107099A (en) | Seawater filter | |
GB2474084A (en) | Impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) | |
Ellor et al. | Cathodic Protection | |
EP0145802A1 (en) | Process for preventing fouling and corrosion of a structure | |
CN207904371U (en) | The impressed current and sacrificial anode Combined Protection device of jacket platform | |
Mehammer et al. | Grounding Strategies for High Voltage Shore Connection of Large Passenger Vessels | |
CN201618464U (en) | Seawater filter with corrosion resistance | |
Holtyn | Corrosion protection guidelines for aluminum hulls | |
JPH06173287A (en) | Corrosion resistant structure for offshore steel structure | |
Ekhasomhi et al. | Design of a cathodic protection system for 2,000 barrels crude oil surge tank using zinc anode | |
CN203807562U (en) | Remote current protective device for platform | |
Botha | Cathodic protection for ships | |
NL2002873C2 (en) | Device and method for inhibiting growth of organisms on a submerged object and a ship provided with such device. | |
CN114901869B (en) | Cathodic protection and anti-fouling device and method | |
CN204138769U (en) | The three-dimensional anode assembly of impressed current cathodic protection peculiar to vessel | |
EP4013674B1 (en) | Watercraft and method for protection for lines that conduct seawater |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20150116 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: BA ME |
|
DAX | Request for extension of the european patent (deleted) | ||
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS |
|
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 20180613 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: C23F 13/06 20060101AFI20200731BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/10 20060101ALI20200731BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/18 20060101ALI20200731BHEP Ipc: B63B 17/00 20060101ALN20200731BHEP Ipc: B63B 59/04 20060101ALI20200731BHEP Ipc: E02B 17/00 20060101ALN20200731BHEP |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: E02B 17/00 20060101ALN20200903BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/06 20060101AFI20200903BHEP Ipc: B63B 17/00 20060101ALN20200903BHEP Ipc: B63B 59/04 20060101ALI20200903BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/18 20060101ALI20200903BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/10 20060101ALI20200903BHEP |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20200928 |
|
GRAJ | Information related to disapproval of communication of intention to grant by the applicant or resumption of examination proceedings by the epo deleted |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSDIGR1 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS |
|
INTC | Intention to grant announced (deleted) | ||
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: C23F 13/18 20060101ALI20210226BHEP Ipc: B63B 17/00 20060101ALN20210226BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/10 20060101ALI20210226BHEP Ipc: E02B 17/00 20060101ALN20210226BHEP Ipc: C23F 13/06 20060101AFI20210226BHEP Ipc: B63B 59/04 20060101ALI20210226BHEP |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20210331 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |
|
RIN1 | Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected) |
Inventor name: CONSTANTINIS, DANIEL Inventor name: MORTLOCK, DAVID |
|
RIN1 | Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected) |
Inventor name: CONSTANTINIS, DANIEL Inventor name: MORTLOCK, DAVID |
|
RAP3 | Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred) |
Owner name: E M&I (MARITIME) LIMITED |
|
RAP3 | Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred) |
Owner name: E M&I (MARITIME) LIMITED |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
RAP3 | Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred) |
Owner name: E M & I (MARITIME) LIMITED |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602013081182 Country of ref document: DE |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 1477491 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20220415 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DK Ref legal event code: T3 Effective date: 20220623 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: FP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG9D |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: RS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: HR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220623 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MK05 Ref document number: 1477491 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20220323 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NO Ref legal event code: T2 Effective date: 20220323 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220624 Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SM Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220725 Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220723 Ref country code: AL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602013081182 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20230102 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20220620 Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20220620 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20220323 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: NO Payment date: 20230615 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: NL Payment date: 20230608 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: MC Payment date: 20230607 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20230607 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: DK Payment date: 20230615 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20230613 Year of fee payment: 11 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Payment date: 20230609 Year of fee payment: 11 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MT Payment date: 20230608 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20230606 Year of fee payment: 11 Ref country code: CH Payment date: 20230702 Year of fee payment: 11 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20130620 |