METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR AUTOMATED PIPELINE TESTING
First Claim
1. A method for testing effectiveness of a cathodic protection device configured to apply at least one voltage across an underground structure and a reference point, said method comprising:
- providing a sample of the material from which the underground structure is fabricated;
placing the sample underground, proximate the underground structure;
electrically connecting the sample to the underground structure through a switch;
operating the switch at predetermined intervals; and
measuring electrical characteristics of the sample at intervals based at least partially on the predetermined intervals and a position of the switch.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A method for testing effectiveness of a cathodic protection device configured to apply at least one voltage across an underground structure and a reference point is described. The method includes providing a sample of the material from which the underground structure is fabricated, placing the sample proximate the underground structure, electrically connecting the sample to the underground structure through a switch, operating the switch at predetermined intervals, and measuring electrical characteristics of the sample at intervals based at least partially on the predetermined intervals and a position of the switch
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A method for testing effectiveness of a cathodic protection device configured to apply at least one voltage across an underground structure and a reference point, said method comprising:
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providing a sample of the material from which the underground structure is fabricated;
placing the sample underground, proximate the underground structure;
electrically connecting the sample to the underground structure through a switch;
operating the switch at predetermined intervals; and
measuring electrical characteristics of the sample at intervals based at least partially on the predetermined intervals and a position of the switch. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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7. A system for testing operation of cathodic protection equipment, the equipment configured to apply at least one voltage across an underground structure and a reference point, said system comprising:
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a sample of a material from which the underground structure is fabricated, said sample configured for underground placement proximate the underground structure;
a switch configured to electrically connect said sample to the underground structure when closed; and
a measurement device configured to control operation of said switch, measure electrical characteristics at said sample with respect to the reference point, and transmit the measurements to an external device. - View Dependent Claims (8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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14. A method for monitoring corrosion of a cathodically protected underground structure using a sample of the material from which the underground structure is fabricated, said method comprising:
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locating the sample underground in proximity to the underground structure;
providing a programmable switch within an electrical connection between the underground structure and the sample;
periodically measuring the voltage at the sample both with the switch closed and with the switch open; and
transmitting the measurements to a site remote from the monitor. - View Dependent Claims (15, 16)
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Specification