Cathodic Protection on water pipes

Summary

This video showcases Denver Water's efforts to prevent corrosion in its large-diameter water pipelines as part of the North System Renewal project. By utilizing protective coatings and cathodic protection systems, Denver Water aims to extend the life of its pipelines, which are prone to corrosion from air, moisture, and oxygen. The installation of magnesium blocks and test stations prevents corrosion and enhances the reliability of the water system. Denver Water invests over $2 million annually, proactively adding over 150 test stations per year to ensure the long-term safety and efficiency of its water delivery system.

Takeaways

• 😀 Denver Water is investing in large-diameter water pipelines as part of the North System Renewal project in Jefferson County.
• 😀 Corrosion is a major threat to the integrity of steel and ductile iron pipelines, causing them to break over time.
• 😀 Corrosion occurs when moisture, air, and oxygen interact with pipes and soil, leading to gradual degradation.
• 😀 Denver Water employs two main methods for corrosion prevention: protective coatings and cathodic protection.
• 😀 A corrosion hole on a steel pipe is shown as an example of what can happen when corrosion is not prevented.
• 😀 Cathodic protection systems are added to pipelines, especially those that are 2 feet in diameter or larger, to prevent corrosion.
• 😀 The cathodic protection system works by attaching a magnesium block to the pipeline, which corrodes instead of the steel pipe.
• 😀 Magnesium anodes are used in cathodic protection systems and can extend the life of a pipeline by up to 25 years.
• 😀 Denver Water invested over $2 million in 2018 to install cathodic protection test stations on steel pipelines.
• 😀 Denver Water installs an average of 150 test stations per year, ensuring the reliability and safety of its water delivery system.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the North System Renewal project by Denver Water?

The North System Renewal project is aimed at installing large diameter water pipes to improve the water delivery system, ensuring it remains reliable and safe for customers.

Why is corrosion prevention critical in water pipelines?

Corrosion is one of the primary causes of pipeline failure, as it can weaken steel and ductile iron pipes, leading to breaks and leaks. Preventing corrosion extends the lifespan of these pipes.

What are the two primary mechanisms used to prevent corrosion in pipelines?

The two main mechanisms used to prevent corrosion are protective coatings and cathodic protection.

How does corrosion occur in pipelines?

Corrosion occurs when air, moisture, and oxygen come into contact with the pipe and the surrounding soil, leading to the degradation of the material.

What is cathodic protection, and how does it help prevent corrosion?

Cathodic protection involves attaching a sacrificial anode, such as magnesium, to the pipeline. The anode corrodes instead of the pipe, protecting the steel or ductile iron pipe from corrosion.

Why is magnesium used in cathodic protection systems?

Magnesium is used because it is more reactive than steel or ductile iron, so it corrodes first, thus protecting the pipeline from corrosion.

What is a cathodic protection test station, and why is it important?

A cathodic protection test station is installed to monitor and maintain the effectiveness of the cathodic protection system. It helps ensure the system is working as intended to prevent corrosion.

How does the installation of cathodic protection test stations benefit Denver Water's pipeline system?

The installation of test stations helps proactively monitor and maintain the cathodic protection systems, ensuring the pipelines are protected from corrosion and can last longer, up to 25 years more.

What does Denver Water's investment in cathodic protection demonstrate about their approach to water system maintenance?

Denver Water's investment shows a proactive approach to infrastructure maintenance by preventing future issues, improving reliability, and extending the lifespan of pipelines.

How many cathodic protection test stations does Denver Water install on average each year?

Denver Water installs an average of over 150 cathodic protection test stations per year.