Verification of the Boundary Element Modelling Technique for Cathodic Protection of Large Ship Structures.
Abstract
Boundary element computer modeling is gaining acceptance for predicting the distribution of cathodic protection potentials on large immersed structures. Much has been published on this technique, including experimental verification on a laboratory scale. However, there has been little published on experimental verification of the model predictions on large structures, especially ships. Since the accuracy of a computer model depends on the boundary conditions used for the model, experimental verification is necessary to insure that the proper polarization conditions have been chosen. A 42-foot barge was outfitted with a 'rudder', 'propeller', sacrificial anodes, and an array of reference cells to measure the distribution of potential over the surface of the hull and appendages. The barge was exposed in seawater for 4 months. The computer-predicted protection distributions were compared to the measured potential distributions. Polarization curves are presented which give good agreement between model predictions and the actual measurements on the uncoated and coated barge hull under low flow conditions. Cathodic protection, Computer modelling, Boundary element analysis, Potential distribution, Current distribution.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA278150
Entities
People
- HP Hack
- Robert M. Janeczko
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division