An integral part of any corrosion modeling study is the verification of the model assumptions and input data used. Two recent studies have used different strategies, and have enabled BEASY to expand the services we offer and develop new technology for interpreting survey data.
Optimizing The Use Of Survey Data
Survey data displayed on the 3D model
Once a structure is commissioned information on the condition of the structure and the performance of the CP system is obtained by surveying the structure to obtain data on the potentials and in some cases field gradients. The number of locations where data is collected and the frequency of such surveys are very much dependent upon the operator and can vary significantly. Data is typically provided in tabular form and has to be assessed by the CP engineer along with other integrity data to identify anomalies (i.e. where the potential is outside the expected range) and to identify trends which may indicate that the design is not performing as expected.
A new development in the services offered by BEASY is to enable the survey potentials to be visualized in 3D on the model of the structure as shown in the figure. Similarly the consumption data for all the anodes and their remaining life can be visualized on the model as well as Excel tables. The presentation and visualization of survey data in this way provides significant benefits by:
Clearly indicating anomalies where there is questionable measurement data as well as where the CP system is not performing as expected
Quantifying the degradation of coatings to enable better prediction of the performance of the CP system over the whole life of the structure
Providing 3D visualization of the potential survey data
Extending the survey data to visualize the protection provided to areas where measurements cannot be made
Therefore this type of study can substantially add value to the information obtained from the survey and enable the operator to optimize the cost, planning and extent of future surveys.
Finally where the computer model has been used to validate the peformance of initial design or retrofit, this type of study can play an integral part of the integrity management to compare the model predictions with the data obtained from the survey to check if the structure is being protected as expected. The model can then be used to make updated predictions of the performance at the end of the design life based on the actual coating degradation rates for example.
A paper was presented at NACE 2012, please click here to view the presentation.
If you would like to discuss the possible use of this service for your project, please contact info@beasy.com
Ballast Tank Study
Physical scale modeling (PSM) has been used for many years, in particular for naval applications to validate the corrosion control measures such as cathodic protection systems installed on ships. Tom Curtin based in BEASY's US Office has recently used PSM as part of a project where the aim was to investigate the CP provided to ballast tanks to verify that the computer modeling results were providing accurate predictions.
Computer model of the prototype tank facility showing the predicted potential and current density
A test facility was commissioned at our Billerica, MA, offices and a comprehensive series of tests performed to validate the computer model predictions.
Good agreement was found between the PSM tests and the computer model predictions which enabled the computer modeling to be used to quickly investigate a range of design solutions with confidence in the predictions.
BEASY's Physical Scale Modeling Test Facility
To discuss how BEASY could help you with your project, please contact info@beasy.com
Aircraft Corrosion
At the recent 2012 Aircraft Airworthiness & Sustainability Conference, there was considerable interest in the BEASY Corrosion Manager Software. In the product development process designs are often exposed to an outdoor environment for a long time, or corrosion acceleration tests are conducted to simulate the actual condition the vehicle or structure will be exposed to during its life. These methods however require several months to years of test time to complete. As an alternative approach, the BEASY Corrosion Manager Computer modelling tool has the potential to significantly shorten and reduce the cost of testing.
The technology was recently applied to a bolted connection to investigate the optimum choice of materials and coatings and to assess the corrosion risk. The joint connected aluminium plates with bolts and the model studied different choice of materials for the bolt, nut and washer.
The case shown in this study compares the option of a steel bolt and washer with the case where the washer is coated. With a steel washer the predicted corrosion rate is an order of magnitude higher than with the coated washer.
This application and a number of others are described in a white paper. To view the white paper, please click here
To find more about BEASY solutions and services or how BEASY could help with a particular application, please contact info@beasy.com
Training
Hands-on courses which provide training to maximize the benefits from BEASY's corrosion software, will be held in the US and UK as follows:
The technology was recently applied to a bolted connection to investigate the optimum choice of materials and coatings and to assess the corrosion risk. The joint connected aluminium plates with bolts and the model studied different choice of materials for the bolt, nut and washer. 