Induced Alternating Current (AC) interference is a significant concern in cathodically protected pipelines, both from an integrity and personnel safety perspective. Pipelines located near high-voltage power lines or electrified railways can accumulate dangerous levels of induced AC, increasing the risk of AC corrosion and electrical shock hazards for operating personnel.

Ancor Pipeline Integrity conducts comprehensive AC interference assessments to identify critical zones with elevated AC levels. These areas are prioritized for ongoing monitoring and mitigation planning. Our methodology combines mathematical modeling, field measurements, and site-specific parameters to design effective mitigation strategies that reduce AC potentials to acceptable levels, in accordance with industry standards.

SCOPE OF THE SERVICE:

• Identification of AC interference risks affecting cathodically protected structures.

• Measurement of AC voltage and soil resistivity at key locations.

• Modeling of induced AC currents using field data and predictive calculations.

• Evaluation of AC corrosion risk and shock hazard (touch and step potential).

• Design of mitigation systems, including recommendation of grounding locations, configurations, and material specifications.

STANDARD REPORT INFORMATION

1. AC Voltage Measurements

2. Soil Resistivity Readings

3. Current Density and AC Corrosion Risk Evaluation

4. AC Interference Modeling and Simulation Results

5. Electrical Shock Hazard Assessment

6. AC Mitigation Design

• Recommended location, type, and size of grounding systems

• Installation drawings and details

7. Conclusions and Recommendations

8. Full Data Analysis and Reporting Package

BENEFITS:

• Reduces the risk of AC corrosion and unplanned failures

• Ensures the safety of field personnel by identifying electrical hazards

• Supports regulatory compliance with AC mitigation criteria (e.g., NACE SP0177, SP21424)

• Provides a technical basis for the design, installation, and verification of mitigation systems