Underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode, cathodic protection system

Abstract

This application discloses an underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode and a cathodic protection system. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode includes a connecting assembly, a transmitting assembly, and a receiving assembly. The transmitting assembly includes a transmitting housing and a first insulating seal, with a first electromagnetic coil installed inside the first insulating seal. The receiving assembly is connected to the transmitting assembly. The receiving assembly includes a receiving housing, a second insulating seal, an insulating component, and an electrode body. A second electromagnetic coil and an integrated circuit are installed inside the second insulating seal. The leads of the electrode body and the leads of the receiving housing are connected to the integrated circuit. The electrode body is embedded inside the insulating component. The internal cavities of the first insulating seal, the transmitting housing, the second insulating seal, and the receiving housing are all filled with insulating and thermally conductive adhesive. This device enables convenient underwater replacement, shortens maintenance cycles, significantly reduces operational difficulty, and lowers maintenance costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of cathodic protection technology for metallic structures in marine environments, and particularly to an underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode and cathodic protection system. Background Technology

[0002] Impressed current cathodic protection systems are rapidly being adopted in the corrosion protection of large marine steel structures due to their environmental friendliness, low energy consumption, high cost-effectiveness, and high level of intelligence. However, the harsh and complex marine environment, with its constant erosion of electrode surfaces by currents carrying silt, and the frequent occurrence of fishing net snagging and reckless construction, poses significant safety hazards to the underwater electrodes in cathodic protection systems, especially the auxiliary electrodes. If the auxiliary electrodes fail, the entire system will become inoperable.

[0003] Existing impressed current cathodic protection systems mainly include a potentiostat, an auxiliary electrode, and a reference electrode. The auxiliary and reference electrodes are typically mounted on the surface of the protected object. The connecting wires of the auxiliary and reference electrodes are respectively connected from their respective protective conduits to the potentiostat. Specifically, the auxiliary electrode is connected to the positive terminal of the potentiostat via an anode cable, and the reference electrode is connected to the potentiostat via a signal cable. If the underwater auxiliary electrode fails, it cannot be replaced underwater due to the sealed design of the corresponding cable and conduit. Even if the entire auxiliary electrode with its cable is replaced, re-laying the cable within the conduit is impractical because the conduit is not straight; cable routing through the conduit is only possible on land. Therefore, when the auxiliary electrode fails, the original system is often abandoned, and the entire underwater component is reinstalled. This is especially problematic in deep-sea areas and typhoon-prone waters, significantly increasing the operational difficulty and resulting in substantial increases in labor and economic costs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present disclosure provides an underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode and a cathodic protection system, which at least partially solves the problems of difficult underwater maintenance and replacement of auxiliary electrodes and high costs in the prior art.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide an underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode, comprising:

[0006] Connection components;

[0007] The transmitter assembly is mounted on the surface of the protected device via the connecting assembly; The The transmitter assembly includes a transmitter housing and a first insulating seal disposed therein, wherein a first electromagnetic coil is disposed inside the first insulating seal.

[0008] A receiver assembly is connected to the transmitter assembly. The receiver assembly includes a receiver housing and a second insulating seal, an insulating component, and an electrode body installed inside it. The second insulating seal houses a second electromagnetic coil and an integrated circuit connected to the second electromagnetic coil. The leads of the electrode body and the leads of the receiver housing are both connected to the integrated circuit. The insulating component is separately disposed from the second insulating seal. The electrode body is embedded inside the insulating component.

[0009] The internal cavity of the first insulating seal, the internal cavity of the transmitter housing, the internal cavity of the second insulating seal, and the internal cavity of the receiver housing are all filled with insulating thermally conductive adhesive.

[0010] Optionally, the connection assembly includes a base flange and a cable stuffing box;

[0011] The base flange has an assembly hole in the middle;

[0012] The cable stuffing box is fixedly connected to the base flange, and one end of the cable stuffing box extends into the assembly hole;

[0013] The lead wire of the cable stuffing box is connected to the first electromagnetic coil.

[0014] Optionally, a first through hole is provided inside the transmitter housing;

[0015] The first insulating seal is installed in the first through hole;

[0016] The first insulating seal has a first groove inside, and the side of the first insulating seal away from the first groove is flush with the side of the transmitter housing away from the base flange.

[0017] Optionally, the receiver housing is fitted to the transmitter housing;

[0018] The receiver housing has a second through hole inside;

[0019] The second insulating seal is installed in the second through hole;

[0020] The second insulating seal has a second groove inside, and the side of the second insulating seal away from the second groove is flush with the side of the receiving end housing.

[0021] The other side of the receiver housing is flush with the end of the insulating component;

[0022] The opening direction of the second groove is opposite to that of the opening direction of the first groove.

[0023] Optionally, the base flange is fixedly connected to the protected equipment by a number of bolts.

[0024] Optionally, the first electromagnetic coil is bonded and fixed to the inner end face of the first groove;

[0025] A first magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the first electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the first groove.

[0026] Optionally, the second electromagnetic coil is bonded and fixed to the inner end face of the second groove;

[0027] A second magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the second electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the second groove.

[0028] Optionally, the first magnetic shielding plate is not configured to protrude from the first groove.

[0029] Optionally, the integrated circuit is mounted on the second magnetic shielding plate; the integrated circuit does not protrude from the second groove.

[0030] Secondly, this application discloses a cathodic protection system, which includes a central control center, a reference electrode, a data acquisition device, an AC power module, and the aforementioned underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode.

[0031] The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode provided in this application has the following advantages: 1) Replaceability: The transmitter and receiver components in this design can be separated from each other. This means that if the auxiliary electrode fails, it can be quickly replaced underwater via the receiver without replacing the entire system. Furthermore, in the event of a transmitter failure, the cable stuffing gland's connector design also allows for underwater replacement of the transmitter, which facilitates maintenance and repair and reduces downtime; 2) High reliability: The transmitter component only contains a first electromagnetic coil and no other electronic components, eliminating the risk of failure. The receiver only contains an AC / DC conversion integrated circuit, simplifying the circuit to the maximum extent and improving the reliability of electronic components. Even if the integrated circuit fails, the cathodic protection system can be ensured to operate normally by quickly replacing the receiver; 3) 1) High sealing performance: Both the transmitter and receiver assemblies employ insulating seals and insulating thermally conductive adhesive. This sealing design effectively prevents water infiltration, protecting internal electrical components from water corrosion and impact. Simultaneously, the insulating thermally conductive adhesive helps conduct generated heat, preventing overheating. 2) High current conversion efficiency: The first and second insulating seals are flush with the transmitter and receiver sides, respectively, and the transmitter and receiver are tightly fitted and fixed together. This ensures minimal spacing between the first and second electromagnetic coils. Furthermore, the small volume and poor flow of seawater within the coil spacing space effectively eliminate the impact of water erosion on the spatial transmission of the electromagnetic field, maximizing the AC electromagnetic field transmission efficiency between the transmitter and receiver. This allows for the same waveform AC current conversion efficiency, with underwater and air current conversion efficiencies being essentially identical.

[0032] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution disclosed herein. In order to better understand the technical means of this disclosure and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode in this application.

[0035] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Top view.

[0036] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view.

[0037] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the cable stuffing box.

[0038] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the first insulating seal in the process.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the cable stuffing box in this application.

[0040] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0041] 1. Base flange; 2. Transmitter housing; 31. First insulating seal; 32. Second insulating seal; 4. Cable stuffing box; 5. Second electromagnetic coil; 6. First electromagnetic coil; 7. Receiver housing; 8. Insulator; 9. Electrode body; 10. First bolt; 11. Second bolt; 12. Flat washer; 13. Nut. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The present disclosure will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the present disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0043] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the embodiments and features described in this disclosure can be combined with each other. The technical solutions of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0044] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary implementations / embodiments shown are to be understood as providing exemplary features of various details that provide ways in which the technical concepts of this disclosure can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the features of various implementations / embodiments may be additionally combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the technical concepts of this disclosure.

[0045] The use of crosshairs and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally used to clarify the boundaries between adjacent components. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between the illustrated components, or any other characteristics, properties, etc., of the components. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of components may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0046] When a component is referred to as being "on" or "above" another component, "connected to," or "joined to" another component, the component may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly joined to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. However, when a component is referred to as being "directly on" another component, "directly connected to," or "directly joined to" another component, there are no intermediate components. Therefore, the term "connection" can refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection, etc., and may or may not have intermediate components.

[0047] For descriptive purposes, this disclosure may use spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “higher,” and “side (e.g., in a “sidewall”)” to describe the relationship between one component and another component as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are also intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, a component described as “below” or “under” another component or feature would subsequently be positioned “above” said other component or feature. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can encompass both “above” and “below” orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), thus interpreting the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein accordingly.

[0048] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” and variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, thus explaining the inherent biases in measurements, calculated values, and / or provided values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0049] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The first aspect of this application discloses an underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode, including a connecting component, a transmitting component, and a receiving component. The connecting component is connected to the transmitting component on one side and to the protected device on the other side, and the receiving component is connected to the transmitting component.

[0050] Specifically, the transmitter assembly is mounted on the surface of the protected device via a connecting assembly; the transmitter assembly includes a transmitter housing 2 and a first insulating seal 31 installed inside it, and a first electromagnetic coil 6 is installed inside the first insulating seal 31.

[0051] The receiver assembly includes a receiver housing 7 and a second insulating seal 32, an insulating element 8, and an electrode body 9 installed inside it. The second insulating seal 32 houses a second electromagnetic coil 5 and an integrated circuit connected to the second electromagnetic coil. The leads of the electrode body 9 and the leads of the receiver housing 7 are connected to the integrated circuit. The insulating element 8 is separately disposed from the second insulating seal 32. The electrode body 9 is embedded inside the insulating element 8.

[0052] Integrated circuits include rectifier units, filter units, etc.

[0053] The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode provided in this application allows for the separation of the transmitter and receiver components. This means that if the auxiliary electrode fails, the receiver can be quickly replaced underwater without replacing the entire system. Furthermore, in the event of a transmitter failure, the cable gland's connector design also enables underwater replacement of the transmitter, facilitating maintenance and repair and reducing downtime. 2) High reliability: The transmitter component contains only a first electromagnetic coil, without any electronic components, eliminating the risk of failure. The receiver only contains an AC / DC conversion integrated circuit, simplifying the circuit to the maximum extent and improving the reliability of electronic components. Even if the integrated circuit fails, the cathodic protection system can be ensured to operate normally by quickly replacing the receiver. 3) Highly sealed. Insulation and thermally conductive adhesive are used in both the transmitter and receiver components. This sealing design effectively prevents water infiltration and protects internal electrical components from water corrosion and impact. At the same time, the thermally conductive adhesive can also help conduct the generated heat and prevent overheating. 4) High current conversion efficiency: The first and second insulating seals are flush with one side of the transmitter and receiver, respectively, and the transmitter and receiver are tightly attached and fixed together. This ensures that the gap between the first and second electromagnetic coils is minimized. At the same time, the seawater volume in the coil gap space is small and the flow is poor, which basically eliminates the influence of water scouring on the spatial transmission of the electromagnetic field. This maximizes the AC electromagnetic field transmission efficiency between the transmitter and receiver, and can achieve the same waveform AC current. The current conversion efficiency underwater and in air is basically the same.

[0054] Preferably, the insulating element 8 is screwed into the end of the receiver housing 7 away from the transmitter housing 2, and a sealing ring is provided between it and the receiver housing 7.

[0055] Preferably, the electrode body 9 is embedded in the insulating component 8 by screws, and a sealing ring is provided between the two; the gaps formed between the receiving end housing 7 and the insulating component 8, and between the insulating component 8 and the electrode body 9, are filled with epoxy sealant.

[0056] Furthermore, the minimum distance between the electrode body 9 and the outer shell of the receiver is greater than 6cm; the electrode body 9 and the outer shell of the receiver are respectively connected to the integrated circuit through wires inside the cavity of the receiver outer shell, and there is no exposed metal inside the cavity.

[0057] Preferably, the surface water-contact material of the electrode body 9 includes, but is not limited to, MMO, platinum-titanium plating, silver, platinum-titanium composite, or platinum-niobium composite; the insulating component 8 is preferably made of acid-resistant and aging-resistant polymer materials, such as PVC.

[0058] In this embodiment, the connecting assembly preferably includes a base flange 1 and a cable stuffing box 4.

[0059] Furthermore, an assembly hole is provided in the middle of the base flange 1; the cable stuffing box 4 is fixedly connected to the base flange 1, and one end of the cable stuffing box 4 extends into the assembly hole; the lead wire of the cable stuffing box 4 is connected to the first electromagnetic coil.

[0060] Furthermore, a sealing ring is also provided between the base flange 1 and the cable stuffing box 4.

[0061] In this embodiment, the base flange 1 and the cable stuffing box 4 are fixedly connected to form a stable connection structure. This connection method can maintain the firmness of the connection and is not easy to loosen or break due to external vibration or movement. By setting a sealing ring between the two, it is ensured that even if there is water on one side of the base flange 1, it will not further seep into the transmitter, thus improving the sealing performance of the component. The base flange has an assembly hole in the middle, and one end of the cable stuffing box extends into the assembly hole. This design allows the cable stuffing box to be easily inserted into the assembly hole of the base flange, realizing the connection between the cable stuffing box and the base flange. The lead wire of the cable stuffing box is connected to the first electromagnetic coil to provide power to the first electromagnetic coil of the transmitter component. Through the design of the connection component, the cable line can be safely guided and fixed in the cable stuffing box, avoiding collision or stretching by external objects in the underwater environment. This can effectively protect the cable line from damage and ensure stable transmission of signals and energy.

[0062] Furthermore, the base flange 1 is provided with several threaded holes for installing several first bolts 10 to connect and fix it to the protected equipment, so as to ensure a good electrical connection between the base flange 1 and the protected equipment.

[0063] In this embodiment, a first through hole is provided inside the transmitter housing 2; a first insulating seal 31 is installed in the first through hole; a first groove is provided inside the first insulating seal 31, and the side of the first insulating seal 31 away from the first groove is flush with the side of the transmitter housing 2 away from the base flange 1.

[0064] The first insulating seal 31 is installed in the first through hole, which can effectively prevent water from seeping into the transmitter housing 2. This sealing design can protect the internal electronic components from water corrosion and influence, and ensure the reliability of the system. The first insulating seal 31 has a first groove inside, and the side away from the groove is flush with the side of the transmitter housing 2 away from the base flange 1. This design can make the first electromagnetic coil as close as possible to the receiver, reducing the spatial transmission distance of the electromagnetic field.

[0065] In this embodiment, the receiver housing 7 is fitted to the transmitter housing 2; a second through hole is provided inside the receiver housing 7; a second insulating seal 32 is installed in the second through hole; a second groove is provided inside the second insulating seal 32, and the side of the second insulating seal 32 away from the second groove is flush with one side of the receiver housing 7; the other side of the receiver housing 7 is flush with the end of the insulating member 8; the opening direction of the second groove is opposite to the opening direction of the first groove.

[0066] The fitting arrangement of the receiver housing 7 and the transmitter housing 2 can effectively reduce the seawater volume between the transmitter and receiver components and avoid the influence of water flow disturbance on the electromagnetic field transmission between the transmitter and receiver components. The installation of the second insulating seal 32 in the second through hole further enhances the sealing performance and protects the internal electronic components from water damage. This design helps to improve the reliability and stability of the system.

[0067] The second insulating seal 32 has a second groove inside, and the side away from the groove is flush with the side of the receiver housing 7. This design allows the second electromagnetic coil to be as close as possible to the transmitter assembly, reducing the spatial transmission distance of the electromagnetic field.

[0068] The side of the first insulating seal 31 away from the first groove is flush with the side of the transmitter housing 2 away from the base flange 1, and the side of the second insulating seal 32 away from the second groove is flush with the side of the receiver housing 7. This ensures that the distance between the first electromagnetic coil and the second electromagnetic coil is the same as the thickness between the first insulating seal 31 and the second insulating seal 32. It also ensures that the receiver housing 7 and the transmitter housing 2 can be tightly connected end to end, reducing the impact of water flow disturbance.

[0069] In this embodiment, the transmitter housing 2 and the receiver housing 7 are detachably and fixedly connected; specifically, both the transmitter housing 2 and the receiver housing 7 are provided with connection holes for the installation of connectors.

[0070] The connector preferably includes a second bolt 11, a flat washer 12, and a nut 13.

[0071] Furthermore, it is preferable to have multiple connectors evenly distributed to ensure good electrical connection and stability between the transmitter housing 2 and the receiver housing 7. In addition, other methods such as threaded connections can also be used, all of which are within the scope of protection of this application, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0072] Furthermore, the base flange 1 is fixedly connected to the protected equipment by several bolts.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first electromagnetic coil is bonded and fixed to the inner end face of the first groove; a first magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the first electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the first groove.

[0074] By bonding and fixing the first electromagnetic coil to the inner end face of the first groove, the position of the coil can be ensured to be stable. This prevents the coil from loosening or shifting during vibration or movement, maintaining the correct alignment of the coil with other components, thereby ensuring the stability and performance of the system. A first magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the first electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the first groove. The function of the magnetic shielding plate is to isolate the magnetic field and prevent the AC electromagnetic field from leaking out during spatial transmission and interfering with the surrounding components. This design can effectively reduce or eliminate the influence of the coil's magnetic field on other components, while improving the transmission efficiency of AC current and enhancing the stability and reliability of the system. The design of bonding and fixing the coil and the magnetic shielding plate simplifies the installation and maintenance process. The coil and the magnetic shielding plate can be fixed together during manufacturing, reducing assembly steps and time.

[0075] The second electromagnetic coil is bonded and fixed to the inner end face of the second groove; a second magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the second electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the second groove, which can ensure the stability of the position of the second electromagnetic coil, prevent the second electromagnetic coil from loosening or shifting during movement or vibration, maintain the correct alignment of the second electromagnetic coil with other components, and thus ensure the stability and performance of the system.

[0076] The first magnetic shielding plate does not protrude from the first groove; the second magnetic shielding plate, after the integrated circuit is placed, does not protrude from the second groove. This avoids physical contact between the magnetic shielding plate or integrated circuit and surrounding components, reducing damage or wear caused by contact or collision, protecting the corresponding coil, the corresponding magnetic shielding plate, and the integrated circuit, thereby improving the reliability of the auxiliary electrode. At the same time, it can help control and guide the magnetic field, keeping the magnetic field within a specified area and improving the spatial transmission efficiency of the electromagnetic field. In addition, product assembly is more convenient, without worrying about interference or damage between the corresponding magnetic shielding plate or integrated circuit and other components.

[0077] The integrated circuit is mounted on the second magnetic shielding plate and does not protrude from the second groove; preferably, the integrated circuit shall not protrude above the edge of the second insulating seal 32 and its inner cavity shall be pre-filled with insulating thermally conductive adhesive before the second insulating seal 32 is installed.

[0078] In this embodiment, the internal cavity of the first insulating seal 31, the internal cavity of the transmitter housing 2, the internal cavity of the second insulating seal 32, and the internal cavity of the receiver housing 7 are all filled with insulating thermally conductive adhesive.

[0079] Insulating thermally conductive adhesive can fill gaps while eliminating air inside the transmitter and receiver components, isolating electronic devices from the ambient air and preventing condensation caused by temperature changes. This helps improve circuit stability and reliability. In addition, the adhesive effectively improves the heat dissipation of the entire system. Its thermal conductivity is much higher than most air and plastics, effectively dissipating heat generated by the internal transmitter and receiver through the metal casing to the environment, reducing the system's operating temperature and thus improving its reliability and lifespan. Furthermore, the adhesive has excellent adhesion, forming a hard filling layer inside the cavity. This increases the stability of the seals and casing, enhancing their load-bearing capacity and preventing deformation or breakage. It also ensures the secure placement of components and leads within the transmitter and receiver components, preventing displacement or breakage due to vibration, thus maintaining normal operation.

[0080] In this embodiment, the first insulating seal 31 does not protrude from the transmitter housing 2, and the second insulating seal 32 does not protrude from the receiver housing 7; a sealing ring is provided between the first insulating seal 31 and the transmitter housing 2, and a sealing ring is provided between the second insulating seal 32 and the receiver housing 7.

[0081] In this embodiment, the first insulating seal 31 and the second insulating seal 32 are both made of acid-resistant and aging-resistant polymer materials, such as PVC; the transmitter shell 2 and the base flange 1 are preferably made of metal materials similar to those of the protected equipment, generally low carbon steel or medium carbon steel.

[0082] In practical applications, the power module provides a fixed frequency AC current to the first electromagnetic coil of the transmitting end component. The receiving end component is attached to the transmitting end component. The second electromagnetic coil in the receiving end component induces an AC magnetic field and generates induced AC current. Then, through the integrated circuit, it forms a DC cathode current and is supplied to the electrode body 9.

[0083] Specifically, after the base flange 1 is installed on the surface of the protected object, the external cable in the cable stuffing box 4 passes through the protective pipe to the power module above the water surface. The protective pipe should be water-free. After the base flange 1 is installed on the surface structure of the protected equipment, the water tightness between the two should be ensured. The cable stuffing box 4 should not be immersed in water for a long time. For the underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode, the resistance of the entire circuit should be calculated before installation to determine the output power of the power module connected to the transmitting end component, as well as the voltage and current range of the integrated circuit in the receiving end component. By controlling the AC waveform of the power module, the DC output power of the receiving end component is controlled, thereby controlling the cathodic protection current and ensuring that the protected object is within a reasonable cathodic protection range.

[0084] The auxiliary electrodes that can be replaced underwater should be spaced at least 1.5 meters apart.

[0085] Reference Figure 4 The cable packing gland 4 in this application is a stepped shaft structure with a through-center hole for cable installation. Specifically, the stepped shaft structure includes a first shaft segment, a second shaft segment, a third shaft segment, and a fourth shaft segment arranged sequentially. The outer diameter of the first shaft segment is smaller than that of the second shaft segment, the outer diameter of the second shaft segment is smaller than that of the third shaft segment, and the outer diameter of the third shaft segment is larger than that of the fourth shaft segment. During assembly, the first and second shaft segments extend into the assembly holes of the base flange 1, the third shaft segment is used to connect and fix with the base flange 1, and the fourth shaft segment forms a cable insertion port for easy cable installation.

[0086] The cable stuffing box disclosed in this application has the following advantages: 1) High space utilization: Due to the gradually increasing outer diameter of the shaft segments, the internal space of the stuffing box can be utilized more effectively, providing more space to accommodate cables, which is especially beneficial for applications requiring the packing of a large number of cables; 2) Flexibility and convenience: With this structure, different sizes of shaft segments can be selected to flexibly adjust the size of the stuffing box as needed, thus adapting to cables of different sizes and types, improving overall adaptability and flexibility; 3) Simplified installation process: By suspending the first and second shaft segments in the mounting holes of the base flange and using the third shaft segment to connect and fix it to the base flange, the entire stuffing box can be installed more conveniently. This structure simplifies the installation process and reduces labor and time costs.

[0087] Furthermore, a sealing ring is provided between the cable stuffing box 4 and the base flange 1, and is installed in the middle of the base flange 1 by screws. After the lead wire of the cable stuffing box 4 is connected to the first electromagnetic coil, the wiring needs to be insulated and sealed to ensure that no metal is exposed.

[0088] Furthermore, the cable stuffing box 4 and the external cable are vulcanized together to ensure a watertight connection between the external cable and the cable stuffing box 4.

[0089] In this embodiment, the cable stuffing box 4 is preferably made of the same material as the base flange 1, or other polar hard polymer materials.

[0090] Reference Figure 5 The first insulating seal 31 includes a first columnar segment and a second columnar segment. The outer diameter of the first columnar segment is larger than the outer diameter of the second columnar segment, and the first groove is formed inside the second columnar segment and part of the first columnar segment, that is, the depth of the first groove is greater than the length of the first columnar segment.

[0091] Preferably, the second insulating seal has the same structure as the first insulating seal, which facilitates processing and saves costs.

[0092] Furthermore, the material of the first insulating seal is an acid-resistant and aging-resistant polymer material, such as PVC; the receiver housing and its flanges and screws should be made of the same material as the transmitter housing.

[0093] In addition, the cable packing gland disclosed in this application has a simple structure, is firmly installed, is easy to use, and has a good sealing effect.

[0094] Reference Figure 6 In another embodiment of this application, one end of the cable stuffing box 4 extends into the mounting hole, and the other end has a plug-in structure. The external cable is connected to the plug-in structure of the cable stuffing box 4 through a vulcanized and adapted connector, which provides a feasible solution for underwater replacement of the transmitter end and realizes the replaceability of all components of the auxiliary electrode.

[0095] Specifically, the cable filler 4 has a stepped shaft structure, with conductive hollow holes (i.e., plug-in structures) of different inner diameters opened at the end away from the assembly hole. These holes are used to connect the external cable to the electromagnetic coil lead inside the transmitter assembly. The different inner diameters of the conductive hollow holes are used to distinguish the positive and negative of the wires.

[0096] The end of the cable stuffing box 4 that extends to the assembly hole is provided with several round pins that match several conductive hollow holes.

[0097] Furthermore, the end of the external cable needs to be vulcanized with a suitable connector to ensure a tight connection between the external cable and the cable filler 4, ensuring good conductivity.

[0098] The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode disclosed in this application is installed on the surface of the object being protected. By using an external power source to change the potential of the object being protected, the potential of the object to be protected is always kept below its self-corrosion potential, thus becoming the cathode of the entire environment. In this way, the object to be protected will not corrode due to the loss of electrons.

[0099] The second aspect of this application discloses a cathodic protection system, which includes a central control center, a reference electrode, a data acquisition device, an AC power module, and a replaceable underwater auxiliary electrode. The central control center controls the entire system; the data acquisition device converts analog information into digital information and transmits it to the central control center; the AC power module changes the AC waveform; and the reference electrode provides a potential signal for the protected object (for example, a high-purity zinc reference electrode with a potential between 50-250 mV is considered a protected object).

[0100] After receiving the potential signal, the central control center determines whether the potential is higher or lower than the set value. Then, by controlling the AC waveform of the power supply module, it controls the output voltage of the receiving end, thereby controlling the magnitude of the output cathode current and ensuring that the electrode potential of the protected equipment is within the set range.

[0101] Through the coordinated operation of components such as the central control center, reference electrode, and auxiliary electrode, this system provides effective cathodic protection, protecting metal structures from corrosion and damage. The system's data acquisition equipment collects relevant data during the cathodic protection process in real time, such as the potential of the protected object. This data is transmitted to the central control center for analysis and monitoring, allowing for real-time understanding of the cathodic protection system's operational status. Accurate data acquisition and monitoring help adjust and optimize cathodic protection parameters, improving system efficiency and performance. The system employs underwater replaceable auxiliary electrodes, enabling convenient and rapid replacement and maintenance without altering other system components. This improves maintainability and continuity, reducing downtime, lowering maintenance costs, and ensuring the normal operation of the cathodic protection system. The AC power module provides a stable power supply, ensuring the normal operation of the cathodic protection system. Stable power supply guarantees the stability of the cathode current and cathodic protection potential, thus providing reliable cathodic protection.

[0102] In practical applications, the spacing between coils should be as small as possible. However, considering different water depths, the thickness of the insulating seal should not be too thin in deep water environments, otherwise it will deform. A thickness of 3-5 cm for the insulating seal is preferred, corresponding to a coil spacing of 6-10 cm. First, determine the coil size and spacing based on the water depth and maximum output power. Then, select an AC frequency with the highest conversion efficiency and fix this frequency in the AC power module, only changing the AC amplitude. The AC power supply at the transmitting end starts from 0 and increases in millivolt increments. The power at the transmitting end, the voltage and power at the receiving end are measured after each increment (conversion efficiency can be further calculated), and the power consumption of the receiving end circuit's internal resistance. This process accumulates thousands of data sets. These data are used to create a discrete mathematical model, ultimately yielding a formula where the input variable is the amplitude of the AC voltage at the transmitting end, and the output variables are the power at the receiving end, the power consumed by the internal resistance of the receiving end circuit, and the output voltage at the receiving end (ignoring the influence of external circuit resistance changes on the output results, and also ignoring the influence of water flow disturbance because the receiving end and transmitting end are in close contact). Further, we need to inversely calculate this formula to obtain a formula where the input variable is the output voltage at the receiving end, and the output variable is the amplitude of the AC voltage at the transmitting end. The output current at the receiving end = (power at the receiving end - power consumed by the internal resistance of the receiving end circuit) / output voltage at the receiving end. This allows us to monitor the output current and change its magnitude, enabling the central control center to automatically set the voltage amplitude of the AC power module through calculation.

[0103] Preferably, the central control center is a host computer.

[0104] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment / mode," "some embodiments / modes," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment / mode or example is included in at least one embodiment / mode or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / mode or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments / modes or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments / modes or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments / modes or examples.

[0105] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0106] Those skilled in the art should understand that the above embodiments are merely for illustrating the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art can make other changes or modifications based on the above disclosure, and these changes or modifications still fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode, characterized in that, include: Connection components; A transmitter assembly is mounted on the surface of the protected device via the connecting assembly; the transmitter assembly includes a transmitter housing and a first insulating seal installed inside therein, and a first electromagnetic coil is installed inside the first insulating seal. A receiver assembly is connected to the transmitter assembly, and the transmitter assembly and the receiver assembly are separable from each other. The receiver assembly includes a receiver housing and a second insulating seal, an insulating component, and an electrode body installed inside it. The second insulating seal houses a second electromagnetic coil and an integrated circuit connected to the second electromagnetic coil. The leads of the electrode body and the leads of the receiver housing are both connected to the integrated circuit. The insulating component is separately disposed from the second insulating seal. The electrode body is embedded inside the insulating component. The internal cavity of the first insulating seal, the internal cavity of the transmitter housing, the internal cavity of the second insulating seal, and the internal cavity of the receiver housing are all filled with insulating thermally conductive adhesive.

2. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connection assembly includes a base flange and a cable stuffing box; The base flange has an assembly hole in the middle; The cable stuffing box is fixedly connected to the base flange, and one end of the cable stuffing box extends into the assembly hole; The lead wire of the cable stuffing box is connected to the first electromagnetic coil.

3. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transmitter housing has a first through hole inside; The first insulating seal is installed in the first through hole; The first insulating seal has a first groove inside, and the side of the first insulating seal away from the first groove is flush with the side of the transmitter housing away from the base flange.

4. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 3, characterized in that, The receiver housing is fitted to the transmitter housing; The receiver housing has a second through hole inside; The second insulating seal is installed in the second through hole; The second insulating seal has a second groove inside, and the side of the second insulating seal away from the second groove is flush with the side of the receiving end housing. The other side of the receiver housing is flush with the end of the insulating component; The opening direction of the second groove is opposite to that of the opening direction of the first groove.

5. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 2, characterized in that, The base flange is fixedly connected to the protected equipment by several bolts.

6. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first electromagnetic coil is bonded and fixed to the inner end face of the first groove; A first magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the first electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the first groove.

7. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second electromagnetic coil is bonded and fixed to the inner end face of the second groove; A second magnetic shielding plate is bonded and fixed to the side of the second electromagnetic coil away from the inner end face of the second groove.

8. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first magnetic shielding plate does not protrude from the first groove.

9. The underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode according to claim 8, characterized in that, The integrated circuit is mounted on the second magnetic shielding plate; The integrated circuit is not protruding from the second groove.

10. A cathodic protection system, characterized in that, The system includes a central control center, a reference electrode, a data acquisition device, an AC power module, and an underwater replaceable auxiliary electrode as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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