3D Analysis of Pipeline with Cathodic Corrosion Protection

Abstract

Natural gas is an indispensable resource for human life. Its transport is usually done through underground pipelines. Due to the environment in which they are placed, the pipelines are subjected to a continuous process of corrosion. This paper aimed a 3D numerical analysis using specialized software (COMSOL Multiphysics) to study several parameters that influence the corrosion of underground pipelines. Starting from real geometric and environmental data, a comparative analysis was performed, considering the pipeline coating (e.g., with HDPE - high- density polyethylene), the placement of the cathode protection electrode, and the soil conductivity near the pipeline. The results confirm the need to cover the pipelines and can be a starting point for choosing the final configuration of the cathodic protection system.