The Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI) Research Report “Pipeline CP Monitoring Using Real Time Current Measurement” (EC-08-11) written by Dale Lindemuth (Corrpro) has now been published by PRCI. The MetriCorr ICL-C remote monitor combining corrosion rate and pipe current was utilized as the backbone of the research. With the capability to measure voltage drops across pipe spans with a 0.1 microvolt resolution, yet another standard-setting monitor from MetriCorr has been brought to the pipeline industry.
MetriCorr ICL-C Powers PRCI’s Breakthrough Study on Real-Time Pipeline CP Monitoring
The Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI) has published a groundbreaking research report, “Pipeline CP Monitoring Using Real-Time Current Measurement” (EC-08-11), authored by Dale Lindemuth (Corrpro). This study highlights the transformative impact of MetriCorr’s ICL-C precision pipe current monitoring technology, which served as the backbone of the research.
Key Findings from PRCI’s Study
- The study included 6 pipelines covering 253 miles monitored for CP effectiveness. The pipelines were provided by major pipeline operators in the US and Canada.
- 72 remote monitoring locations were installed, with an average spacing of 3.3 miles (maximum 13.5 miles).
- Precision readings achieved with 0.1 microvolt resolution, enabling detection of 1 mA pipe currents and even lower. Pipe current monitoring applied with this resolution can be used to monitor coating condition in addition to the cathodic protection effectiveness.
- Real-time monitoring at a 10-minute sampling rate, readily capturing 74 simulated upset conditions with a sensitivity far exceeding traditional pipe-to-soil potential measurements
Why This Matters for Pipeline Operators
PRCI’s findings highlight the significant advantages of real-time pipe current monitoring for pipeline operators. The study confirms that this approach is a highly cost-effective solution for both new and existing pipelines, offering more efficient and accurate monitoring compared to traditional methods.
One of the key advantages is its superior sensitivity, as it enables the detection of CP upsets at much greater distances – over 10 miles – than conventional pipe-to-soil potential readings. Additionally, MetriCorr’s ICL-C technology enhances stray current detection, identifying rapid corrosion threats in real time and significantly improving pipeline integrity management.
Looking ahead, PRCI also recognizes the potential of AI and machine learning in CP monitoring, recommending further development of smart, data-driven solutions that leverage advanced algorithms to optimize corrosion management.
MetriCorr – Setting New Standards in Pipeline Integrity
As a trusted provider of cutting-edge remote monitoring solutions, MetriCorr is proud to continue to support research that drives the industry forward. This validation from PRCI underscores the value of high-resolution pipe current monitoring in modern CP programs.
The PRCI report provides tools for incorporating real time pipe current measurements into a remote monitoring protocol to help in an integrated external corrosion management plan for cathodically protected pipelines. The use of continuous remotely collected pipe current measurements optimizes the corrosion protection and improves response time to upset conditions that might otherwise compromise the corrosion control.
The Report:
PRCI Report EC.08.11. PR229-203604-R01 Pipeline CP Monitoring Using Real Time Current Measurement
Included is 4 items:
- A report covering the results of and findings from the Phase 1 field-based research for PRCI.
- A Guidance Manual – This guidance manual provides tools for incorporating real time pipe current measurements into a remote monitoring protocol to help in an integrated external corrosion management plan for cathodically protected pipelines.
- A Life-Cycle Cost Calculator – This Excel-based life-cycle cost calculator has been prepared to assist in the design of a pipeline cathodic protection remote monitoring program.
- A Life-Cycle Cost Calculator Manual – This user’s manual is companion to an Excel-based life-cycle cost calculator that has been prepared to assist in the design of a pipeline cathodic protection remote monitoring program.
Contact us to learn more and discover how MetriCorr’s ICL-C line-current technology can optimize your pipeline CP monitoring.
MetriCorr – Smarter Pipeline Monitoring, Better and more Cost-Effective Corrosion Protection
