Impressed current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable cathode and anode voltage

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of metal material protection, in particular to an impressed current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable cathode and anode voltage, which comprises a protected metal material, a chlorine evolution electrode, a voltage adjusting module and a direct current power supply, the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode are respectively connected with a negative electrode and a positive electrode of a direct-current power supply and form a closed loop with a seawater medium, and the voltage regulation module is respectively connected with the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode and is used for regulating potential values of the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode. According to the system, the voltage of an auxiliary anode and the voltage on a protected steel and metal structure are independently adjustable in an impressed current cathodic protection system, and the auxiliary anode is replaced by a chlorine evolution anode, so that the cathode protection of the protected steel and metal structure can be realized, and meanwhile, the auxiliary anode is used for chlorine evolution so as to inhibit biological fouling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of metal material protection technology, and in particular to an external current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable anode and cathode voltages. Background Technology

[0002] Seawater is highly corrosive and contains a large number of microorganisms and biomass, which can adhere to metal surfaces and cause biofouling. Steel structures in marine environments need to be protected against both corrosion and biofouling.

[0003] To protect steel structures in marine environments, corrosion protection technologies such as anti-corrosion coatings, sacrificial anode cathodic protection, and impressed current cathodic protection have been developed. Among these, impressed current cathodic protection directly adjusts the voltage supplied by a DC power source to maintain the voltage of the protected steel structure within an appropriate range, thus achieving corrosion protection. In an impressed current cathodic protection system, during the adjustment of the DC power supply voltage, the voltage applied to the auxiliary anode changes in tandem with the voltage applied to the protected steel structure.

[0004] However, the existing metal material protection systems still have the following technical problems in use: While these methods can provide a certain degree of corrosion protection, they cannot solve the problem of biofouling of the protected metal material. Furthermore, in impressed current protection systems, the voltage of the auxiliary anode and the voltage on the protected metal material cannot be independently adjusted. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology and provide an external current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable anode and cathode voltages.

[0006] The technical solution adopted by this utility model to achieve its technical objective is: an external current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable anode and cathode voltages, the system including the protected metal material, a chlorine-electrode electrode, a voltage regulation module, and a DC power supply;

[0007] The protected metal material and the chlorine-electrode are respectively connected to the negative and positive terminals of the DC power supply, forming a closed circuit with the seawater medium.

[0008] The voltage regulation module is connected to the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode respectively, and is used to adjust the potential values ​​of the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode.

[0009] Preferably, the protected metallic material is a metal structure or equipment requiring corrosion protection. Examples include ship hulls, offshore platforms, and subsea pipelines. The protected metallic material is connected to the electrical circuit to achieve impressed current cathodic protection.

[0010] Chlorine evolution electrode: This is a device that electrolyzes seawater in seawater using a suitable voltage to produce chlorine gas and hypochlorite. The chlorine evolution electrode generates chlorine gas and hypochlorite by electrolyzing seawater and then transports the chlorine gas to the vicinity of the protected metal material. The protected metal material is in direct contact with the chlorine evolution electrode through the seawater medium (seawater is conductive, so this connection is possible), and both are connected to a DC power supply, forming an impressed current cathodic protection system.

[0011] Voltage regulation module: A device for regulating the potential values ​​of the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode. It may include a sensor and a potential regulator. The sensor is used to detect the potential value, and the potential regulator is used to regulate the voltage based on the detection result.

[0012] The voltage regulation module includes a first voltage regulation module and a second voltage regulation module;

[0013] The first voltage regulation module is connected to the protected metal material and the negative terminal of the DC power supply respectively, and adjusts the potential value of the protected metal material.

[0014] The second voltage regulation module is connected to the chlorine-electrode and the positive terminal of the DC power supply, respectively, to regulate the potential value of the chlorine-electrode.

[0015] Preferably, the chlorine evolution electrode is at least one of a DSA electrode, a titanium-based electrode, an aluminum-based electrode, and a platinum-based electrode.

[0016] Preferably, the first voltage regulation module includes a first variable resistor, a first potentiometer, and a first reference electrode.

[0017] Preferably, the negative terminal of the DC power supply is connected to the protected metal material through a first variable resistor; the first potentiometer is connected between the first variable resistor and the protected metal material; the first reference electrode is connected to the first potentiometer, and it simultaneously forms a closed circuit with the seawater medium.

[0018] When adjusting the potential, in the electrical circuit consisting of the first potentiometer, the first reference electrode, the protected metal material, and the seawater medium, the first potentiometer displays the cathodic protection potential value of the protected metal material.

[0019] Preferably, the second voltage regulation module includes a second variable resistor, a second potentiometer, and a second reference electrode.

[0020] Preferably, the positive terminal of the DC power supply is connected to the chlorine-electrode via a second variable resistor; the second potentiometer is connected between the second variable resistor and the chlorine-electrode; the second reference electrode is connected to the second potentiometer, and simultaneously forms a closed loop with the seawater medium.

[0021] When adjusting the potential, in the electrical circuit consisting of the second potentiometer, the second reference electrode, the chlorine-electrode, and the seawater medium, the second potentiometer displays the potential value of the chlorine-electrode.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0023] The system first connects the protected metal material and the chlorine-electrode to the negative and positive terminals of the potentiostat, respectively, to form a closed circuit. This ensures that current flows from the power source through the protected metal material and the chlorine-electrode, generating a cathodic protection potential value and achieving cathodic protection.

[0024] Secondly, two voltage regulation modules are added to the closed loop to input current to the protected metal material and the chlorine evolution electrode in a specific manner.

[0025] Finally, the voltage regulation module is connected to the protected metal material and the chlorine-electrode respectively, and can independently adjust the potential value of the protected metal material and the chlorine-electrode in real time to ensure that the appropriate potential value is achieved to protect the steel metal structure from corrosion. At the same time, the potential of the chlorine-electrode reaches the chlorine-electrode potential in seawater, generating chlorine gas and hypochlorite, thereby inhibiting the growth and attachment of organisms.

[0026] This system not only allows for independent adjustment of the anode and cathode voltages, but also provides corrosion protection for steel metal structures and inhibits biofouling of steel metal structures. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship of each component in an externally applied current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable anode and cathode voltages.

[0028] in:

[0029] 1-DC power supply; 2-First variable resistor; 3-First potentiometer; 4-First reference electrode; 5-Protected metal material; 6-Chlorine evolution electrode; 7-Second variable resistor; 8-Second potentiometer; 9-Second reference electrode; 10-Seawater medium Detailed Implementation

[0030] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the utility model product is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] In the description of this utility model, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present utility model and are not intended to limit its scope. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of the present utility model. Example 1

[0033] Please see Figure 1 An independently adjustable impressed current cathodic protection system is disclosed. The system includes a protected metal material 5, a chlorine-electrode 6, a voltage regulation module, and a DC power supply 1. The protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6 are respectively connected to the negative and positive terminals of the DC power supply 1, forming a closed loop with the seawater medium 10. The voltage regulation module is connected to the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6, and is used to adjust the potential values ​​of the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6.

[0034] Furthermore, in this embodiment:

[0035] Protected metal material 5: This refers to the metal structure or equipment requiring corrosion protection. Examples include ship hulls, offshore platforms, and subsea pipelines. Protected metal material 5 is connected to the electrical circuit to achieve impressed current cathodic protection.

[0036] Chlorine-electrode 6: This is a device that electrolyzes seawater in seawater to produce chlorine and hypochlorite when a suitable voltage is applied. The chlorine-electrode 6 generates chlorine and hypochlorite by electrolyzing seawater and transfers the chlorine to the surrounding area of ​​the protected metal material 5. The protected metal material 5 is in direct contact with the chlorine-electrode 6 through a seawater medium (seawater is conductive, so this connection is possible), and both are connected to a DC power supply 1, forming an impressed current cathodic protection system.

[0037] The chlorine evolution electrode 6 is at least one of the following: DSA electrode, titanium-based electrode, aluminum-based electrode, and platinum-based electrode.

[0038] Voltage regulation module: A device for regulating the potential value between the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine evolution electrode 6. It may include a sensor and a potential regulator. The sensor is used to detect the potential value, while the potential regulator is used to regulate the voltage based on the detection result.

[0039] Specifically, the method of use is as follows: Connect the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6 to the negative and positive terminals of the DC power supply 1, respectively. Ensure the connection is secure and reliable to ensure that current can flow through the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6. The voltage regulation module, connected to the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6, is used to adjust their potential values ​​in real time. The voltage regulation module can monitor the potential value and adjust the applied voltage to maintain the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine-electrode 6 within an appropriate potential range. Example 2

[0040] Please see Figure 1 Based on the above embodiments, the external current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable anode and cathode voltages includes a voltage adjustment module comprising a first voltage adjustment module and a second voltage adjustment module. The first voltage adjustment module is connected to the protected metal material 5 and the negative terminal of the DC power supply 1, respectively, to adjust the potential value of the protected metal material 5. The second voltage adjustment module is connected to the chlorine evolution electrode 6 and the positive terminal of the DC power supply 1, respectively, to adjust the potential value of the chlorine evolution electrode 6.

[0041] The first voltage regulation module includes a first variable resistor 2, a first potentiometer 3, and a first reference electrode 4. The negative terminal of the DC power supply 1 is connected to the protected metal material 5 through the first variable resistor 2; the first potentiometer 3 is connected between the first variable resistor 2 and the protected metal material 5; the first reference electrode 4 is connected to the first potentiometer 3, and simultaneously forms a closed circuit with the seawater medium 10; during potential regulation, in the electrical circuit formed by the first potentiometer 3, the first reference electrode 4, the protected metal material 5, and the seawater medium 10, the first potentiometer 3 displays the cathodic protection potential value of the protected metal material 5.

[0042] The second voltage regulation module includes a second variable resistor 7, a second potentiometer 8, and a second reference electrode 9. The positive terminal of the DC power supply 1 is connected to the chlorine-electrode 6 through the second variable resistor 7; the second potentiometer 8 is connected between the second variable resistor 7 and the chlorine-electrode 6; the second reference electrode 9 is connected to the second potentiometer 8, and simultaneously forms a closed circuit with the seawater medium 10; during potential regulation, in the electrical circuit formed by the second potentiometer 8, the second reference electrode 9, the chlorine-electrode 6, and the seawater medium 10, the second potentiometer 8 displays the potential value of the chlorine-electrode 6.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first variable resistor 2 can adjust the potential of the protected metal material 5 by adjusting its resistance value. When the potential value is within the desired cathodic protection potential range, effective cathodic protection of the protected metal material 5 can be ensured to prevent corrosion and damage. By adjusting the variable resistor 2, the cathodic protection potential can be adjusted as needed to ensure effective cathodic protection and minimize the risk of corrosion.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the DC power supply 1 is connected to the chlorine-electrode 6 via the second variable resistor 7, primarily for adjusting the chlorine-electrode potential to reach the chlorine-electrode potential. The variable resistor 7 shares part of the voltage, thereby affecting the anode potential value. The purpose of adjusting the anode potential to the chlorine-electrode potential is to generate chlorine gas and hypochlorite in seawater at the anode chlorine-electrode, thereby inhibiting the growth and attachment of organisms on the surface of the protected metal material 5. The anode potential is monitored in real time, and a feedback signal is sent to the second variable resistor 7. The resistance value of the second variable resistor 7 is adjusted according to the required chlorine-electrode potential range to keep the anode potential within an appropriate range.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first reference electrode 4 and the second reference electrode 9 are typically electrodes that do not readily undergo potential changes, and their function is to provide a reference potential. The protected metal material 5 and the chlorine evolution electrode 6 are respectively equipped with the first reference electrode 4 and the second reference electrode 9 to provide a stable standard potential, serving as references for the potential measurement of the protected metal material 5 and the chlorine evolution electrode 6, respectively. The first reference electrode 4 is connected to the reference channel of the first potentiometer 3, and the second reference electrode 9 is connected to the reference channel of the second potentiometer 8 to measure the reference potential in real time.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cathodic protection potential value is adjusted within the range of -0.90V to -1.20V.

[0047] Cathodic protection is a method of controlling metal corrosion by designating the metal as a cathode, making it an electrode that is less prone to corrosion relative to the surrounding environment. To achieve effective cathodic protection, the potential of the protected metal material 5 needs to be adjusted to an appropriate range. This range represents the ideal range of cathodic protection potential required for the protected metal material 5.

[0048] The specific range for adjusting the chlorine evolution potential is 0.67V to 1.75V.

[0049] There is a specific adjustment range for the chlorine evolution potential of the anolyte chlorine evolution electrode 6. In this embodiment, this range is set between 0.67V and 1.75V. Within this range, the chlorine evolution efficiency of the anolyte chlorine evolution electrode 6 is the most efficient. If the chlorine evolution potential exceeds 1.75V, oxygen may be evolved from the anolyte chlorine evolution electrode 6, resulting in a decrease in chlorine evolution efficiency. Conversely, if the chlorine evolution potential is below 0.67V, the chlorine evolution efficiency of the anolyte chlorine evolution electrode 6 in the system is very low, making it unable to work effectively and providing insufficient protection against biofouling.

[0050] It should be noted that although the above embodiments have been described herein, this does not limit the scope of patent protection for this utility model. Therefore, any changes and modifications made to the embodiments described herein based on the innovative concept of this utility model, or equivalent structural, procedural, or functional transformations made using the content of this utility model's specification and drawings, directly or indirectly applying the above technical solutions to other related technical fields, are all included within the scope of protection of this utility model patent.

Claims

1. An external current cathodic protection system with independently adjustable anode and cathode voltages, characterized in that: The system includes a protected metal material (5), a chlorine evolution electrode (6), a voltage regulation module, and a DC power supply (1). The protected metal material (5) and the chlorine-electrode (6) are respectively connected to the negative and positive terminals of the DC power supply (1) to form a closed circuit with the seawater medium (10); The voltage regulation module includes a first voltage regulation module and a second voltage regulation module; The first voltage adjustment module is connected to the protected metal material (5) and the negative terminal of the DC power supply (1) respectively, and adjusts the potential value of the protected metal material (5); The second voltage adjustment module is connected to the positive terminal of the chlorine-electrode (6) and the DC power supply (1) respectively, and adjusts the potential value of the chlorine-electrode (6).

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chlorine-electrode (6) is at least one of the following: DSA electrode, titanium-based electrode, aluminum-based electrode, and platinum-based electrode.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first voltage regulation module includes a first variable resistor (2), a first potentiometer (3), and a first reference electrode (4).

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The negative terminal of the DC power supply (1) is connected to the protected metal material (5) through the first variable resistor (2); the first potentiometer (3) is connected between the first variable resistor (2) and the protected metal material (5); the first reference electrode (4) is connected to the first potentiometer (3), and it simultaneously forms a closed loop with the seawater medium (10).

5. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second voltage regulation module includes a second variable resistor (7), a second potentiometer (8), and a second reference electrode (9).

6. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The positive terminal of the DC power supply (1) is connected to the chlorine-electrode (6) through the second variable resistor (7); the second potentiometer (8) is connected between the second variable resistor (7) and the chlorine-electrode (6); the second reference electrode (9) is connected to the second potentiometer (8) and simultaneously forms a closed loop with the seawater medium (10).

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