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U.S. Department of Energy
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Grounding and cathodic protection design

Conference · · Proc. Am. Power Conf.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5413554
The function of grounding is to provide protection to electrical equipment and safety to personnel during disturbances on the electric power system, while the function of cathodic protection is to prevent corrosion on underground metallic structures. The roles of the two systems are evidently different. This probably explains why most engineers think of the two systems as independent and unrelated systems. In reality, however, they are not. The two systems are installed underground in close proximity in the general plant area. This sharing of the soil environment gives rise to interaction between the two systems. The basic grounding and cathodic protection requirements are reviewed, the adverse effects of this interaction are discussed, and the improved performance of both systems and overall cost savings can be achieved by proper coordination between the two systems at the early design stages are described. It is concluded that the adverse effects of the grounding system on underground piping and other metallic structures can be neutralized and resolved in an effective and economical way. This is achieved by recognition of the potential problems and proper coordination in the design of the two systems. The use of lead-covered copper ground conductor and stainless steel ground rods for the materials of the grounding mat is recommended. The routing of ground cable has serious implications in terms of safety and corrosion prevention. The engineer should be familiar with both fields so that one objective is not achieved at the expense of the other.
Research Organization:
Sargent and Lundy, Chicago
OSTI ID:
5413554
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Proc. Am. Power Conf.; (United States) Journal Volume: 38
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English