Hidden self-detection test box for cathode protection

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of pipeline protection, and particularly discloses a concealed self-detection test box for cathode protection, which comprises a body, the body is provided with an accommodating chamber with a top opening, the inner wall of the accommodating chamber is provided with a test terminal, the test terminal is connected with a pipeline through a test cable, and a test pipeline extending out of the body is arranged in the accommodating chamber; the cover plate covers the top of the body through a connecting piece, and the upper surface of the cover plate is flush with the road surface; and the self-detection module located in the accommodating chamber is installed at the bottom of the accommodating chamber, the self-detection module is electrically connected with the cathode protection unit through a cable, and the self-detection module is electrically connected with the test terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pipeline protection technology, and in particular to a concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection. Background Technology

[0002] Cathodic protection technology has been widely applied in various engineering fields such as buried pipelines, marine engineering, bridges, and tunnels, providing a fundamental guarantee for the long service life of various facilities. In practical applications, the effectiveness of cathodic protection is usually evaluated by measuring relevant parameters such as cathodic protection potential. The detection and evaluation of cathodic protection effectiveness are usually carried out using test stakes reserved on-site. However, for some densely populated factory areas or urban roads where cleanliness is required, reserving test stake locations is not possible. Without test stakes, it is impossible to test and accumulate daily cathodic protection data, which brings difficulties to the maintenance of cathodic protection units. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a concealed self-testing test box for cathodic protection. The test box is installed in a concealed manner, flush with the surface of a valve well or paved road surface, ensuring the concealment of the test point and preventing the test stake from being exposed on the ground, thus reducing the possibility of human-caused damage or destruction. Installation in paved roads or valve wells effectively utilizes existing space, minimizing the impact on the surface landscape or usability.

[0004] This application provides a concealed self-testing kit for cathodic protection, comprising:

[0005] The body has a receiving chamber with a top opening, a test terminal is provided on the inner wall of the receiving chamber, the test terminal is connected to a pipe through a test cable, and a test pipe extending out of the body is provided in the receiving chamber;

[0006] A cover plate, which is fitted onto the top of the body via a connector, and the upper surface of the cover plate is flush with the road surface;

[0007] The self-testing module, located in the housing, is installed at the bottom of the housing. The self-testing module is electrically connected to the cathode protection unit via a cable and is also electrically connected to the test terminal.

[0008] In one embodiment, the self-test module includes a self-test housing and a test motherboard disposed within the self-test housing;

[0009] The outer periphery of the self-test housing is provided with connecting ears and three terminals. The connecting ears are installed at the bottom of the receiving chamber by fixing bolts. The three terminals are respectively connected to the anode cable, the reference cable and the test cable. The anode cable and the reference cable are electrically connected to the cathodic protection unit.

[0010] The detection motherboard is electrically connected to each of the terminals via wires.

[0011] In one embodiment, the detection motherboard is provided with an alarm that extends through the top of the self-test housing;

[0012] The cover plate is equipped with a transparent plate for observing the alarm.

[0013] In one embodiment, a buffer pad is provided between the self-test housing and the cover plate.

[0014] In one embodiment, a cement base is installed at the bottom of the body to isolate external electrical signals.

[0015] In one embodiment, the cement base is provided with a first inlet gland and a second outlet gland that communicate with the receiving chamber;

[0016] The test cable enters the housing chamber through the first incoming line gland;

[0017] The anode cable and the reference cable enter the housing chamber through the second grate.

[0018] In one embodiment, one end of the test pipeline passes through the cement base and is sealed with a nylon mesh, while the other end is sealed with a test end cap, which is pressed against the top of the test pipeline by the cover plate.

[0019] In one embodiment, a rubber gasket is provided between the top of the body and the cover plate to increase the sealing between the body and the cover plate.

[0020] In one embodiment, the cathodic protection unit includes a magnesium alloy anode electrically connected to the anode cable and a copper rod electrically connected to the reference cable, wherein a filler packing is wrapped around the magnesium alloy anode.

[0021] In one embodiment, the connector includes a cover bolt;

[0022] The cover plate is provided with upper connecting holes for bolt installation of the cover plate;

[0023] The top of the main body is provided with a lower connecting hole corresponding to the upper connecting hole;

[0024] The cover plate bolts pass through the upper connecting hole and connect to the lower connecting hole to press the cover plate tightly against the body.

[0025] The advantages of this application compared to the prior art are as follows:

[0026] The concealed self-testing test box provided in this application is deployed along the pipeline route. The interval between adjacent concealed self-testing test boxes should preferably not exceed 3km, and the spacing should be appropriately increased in areas affected by stray current interference. The main body is placed in a valve well or road surface, and the cover plate is fitted onto the top of the main body through a connector. The upper surface of the cover plate is flush with the road surface, ensuring the concealment of the test point and avoiding the test pile being exposed on the ground, thus reducing the possibility of human damage or destruction. Installation in hardened road surfaces or valve wells can effectively utilize existing space and reduce the impact on the surface landscape or use. The above-mentioned installation location can usually provide a relatively stable environment, reducing the influence of external factors such as temperature and humidity on the test box. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this utility model and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the concealed self-testing test box in this application.

[0029] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of section AA.

[0030] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of section BB.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the self-testing module in this application.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the working principle of the self-test module in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The specific embodiments of this utility model will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments of this utility model. Based on the description of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0034] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," and "connect," etc., 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances.

[0035] The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “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 product is in use. They are used only for the convenience of description and simplification, 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.

[0036] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are used merely to distinguish elements with similar properties, not to indicate or imply relative importance or a specific order.

[0037] The terms “include,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, which includes not only the elements listed but also other elements not expressly listed.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a concealed self-testing test box for cathodic protection, comprising: a body 6, the body 6 having a receiving chamber 61 with a top opening, a test terminal 22 provided on the inner wall of the receiving chamber 61, the test terminal 22 being connected to a pipe 15 via a test cable 17, and a test pipe 21 extending out of the body 6 within the receiving chamber 61; a cover plate 1, the cover plate 1 being fitted onto the top of the body 6 via a connector, and the upper surface of the cover plate 1 being flush with the road surface; and a self-testing module 7, the self-testing module 7 being installed at the bottom of the receiving chamber 61 within the receiving chamber 61, the self-testing module 7 being electrically connected to a cathodic protection unit via a cable, and the self-testing module 7 being electrically connected to the test terminal 22. In this embodiment, a welding point 16 is provided on the pipe 15 for connecting the end of the test cable 17.

[0039] In practical use, the concealed self-testing test box provided in this application is deployed along the pipeline route. The interval between adjacent concealed self-testing test boxes should preferably not exceed 3km, and the spacing should be appropriately increased in areas affected by stray current interference. Specifically, the main body 6 is placed in a valve well or road surface, and the cover plate 1 is fitted onto the top of the main body 6 through a connector. The upper surface of the cover plate 1 is flush with the road surface, ensuring the concealment of the test point and avoiding the test pile being exposed on the ground, thus reducing the possibility of human damage or destruction. Installation in hardened road surfaces or valve wells can effectively utilize existing space and reduce the impact on the surface landscape or use. The above-mentioned installation location can usually provide a relatively stable environment, reducing the influence of external factors such as temperature and humidity on the test box.

[0040] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, in a specific example provided in this application, the self-test module 7 includes a self-test housing 28 and a test mainboard 27 housed within the self-test housing 28; the outer periphery of the self-test housing 28 is provided with connecting ears 281 and three wiring terminals 25, which are fixed by bolts 20 (see...). Figure 1 Connector 281 is installed at the bottom of housing 61. Three terminals are connected to anode cable 11, reference cable 10, and test cable 17, respectively. Anode cable 11 and reference cable 10 are electrically connected to the cathodic protection unit. The detection mainboard 27 is electrically connected to each terminal 25 via wires. For details, see... Figure 4 As shown, a transistor 29 is installed on the test motherboard 27. Two terminals 25, which connect to the anode cable 11 and the reference cable 10, are electrically connected to the two N-terminals of the transistor 29, respectively. The terminal connected to the test cable 17 is electrically connected to the P-terminal of the transistor 29. It should be noted that after the transistor 29 is electrically connected, polyurethane filler 30 is filled into the self-test housing 28.

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, in a specific example provided in this application, the detection motherboard 27 is equipped with an alarm 32 that extends through the top of the self-test housing 28; the cover plate 1 is equipped with a transparent plate 2 for observing the alarm 32. Specifically, the alarm 32 is an indicator light or a buzzer, and the transparent plate 2 is an acrylic plate. In this embodiment, the self-test housing 28 has a top plate 26 and a floor 31, and the alarm 32 extends out of the housing 28 through the top plate 26. It can be understood that during routine inspections, the working status of the alarm 32 can be observed through the transparent acrylic plate without opening the cover plate 1, reducing the workload during maintenance and improving daily maintenance efficiency.

[0042] like Figure 5The diagram shows the circuit working principle of a self-test module 7. A suitable transistor 29 is selected to maintain the saturation voltage at 0.8V (the transistor specification can be adjusted and replaced according to the actual situation of cathodic protection). The reference cable 10 from the copper rod 12 is connected to the N-terminal (C) of the transistor 29. The anode cable 11 from the magnesium alloy anode 14 is connected to the two N-terminals (E) of the transistor 29. The P-terminal (B) of the transistor 29 is electrically connected to the protection pipe 15 through the electrically connected test cable 17, providing feedback on the cathodic protection potential. Since the potential of the magnesium alloy anode 14 is ≤-1.6V when buried, when the pipe protection potential is higher than -0.80V (vs Cu / CuSO4 reference electrode), the transistor conducts, ultimately causing the magnesium alloy rod 4 and copper rod 5 to conduct, forming a galvanic cell. The alarm 32 (indicator bead / buzzer) in the self-test module is powered by the galvanic cell and alarms (light / sound), thus realizing the self-test function.

[0043] Understandably, the self-test module 7 operates normally as follows: Under normal circumstances, the cathodic protection unit of pipe 15 maintains its normal function, meaning the protection potential of pipe 15 remains below the standard protection potential (typically required to be ≤-0.80V vs Cu / CuSO4 reference electrode). During this period, the transistor 29 in the self-test module is not conducting, therefore the alarm 32 (indicator bead / buzzer) will not emit a light / sound alarm. In abnormal conditions: When the protection potential of the pipeline is higher than -0.80V, it indicates that the cathodic protection effect of pipeline 15 is problematic, and the pipeline may be at risk of corrosion. In this case, the specifications of transistor 29 are such that when the pipeline protection potential reaches or exceeds -0.80V, transistor 29 will conduct (enter saturation state), that is, the voltage drop between its collector and emitter will become very small, close to the saturation voltage (usually 0.8V). After transistor 29 conducts, the copper rod trailing cable 10 and the anode trailing cable 11 form a current path through the two N terminals (C and E) of transistor 29, while the P terminal (B) of the transistor is connected to the fixed plate 27, so that pipeline cable 17 is electrically connected to pipeline 15. Through this connection, the potential difference between the copper rod and the magnesium alloy anode forms a galvanic cell, generating enough current to drive the alarm 32 (indicator bead / buzzer) to work, thereby emitting a light / sound alarm.

[0044] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown in a specific example provided in this application, a buffer pad 3 is provided between the self-test housing 28 and the cover plate 1. It is understood that the buffer pad 3 can reduce physical impact or pressure between the cover plate 1 and the body 6 caused by vibration, temperature changes, or other external forces. This helps prevent damage to internal circuits, components, and connection points, extending the service life of the equipment.

[0045] like Figure 1As shown in a specific example provided in this application, a cement base 9 is installed at the bottom of the main body 6 to isolate external electrical signals. Specifically, the cement base 9 is provided with a first inlet gland 191 and a second outlet gland 192 communicating with the receiving chamber 61; the test cable 17 enters the receiving chamber 61 through the first inlet gland 191; the anode cable 11 and the reference cable 10 enter the receiving chamber 61 through the second outlet gland 192. It is worth mentioning that in this embodiment, the inner bottom of the receiving chamber is sealed with epoxy resin 8 to prevent water leakage.

[0046] It can be understood that the cement base 9 defines the installation positions of the first incoming platen 191 and the second incoming platen 192, ensuring their proper functioning. The cement base 9 also serves as electrical isolation, preventing the electrical signals of the test box from being affected by the external electrical environment, thus ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the test system and improving the overall reliability and stability of the cathodic protection unit. The cement base 9 is corrosion-resistant and weather-resistant, maintaining structural integrity for extended periods in outdoor environments, thereby protecting the lifespan of the test box.

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, in a specific example provided in this application, one end of the test conduit 21 passes through the cement base 9 and is sealed by a nylon mesh 18, while the other end is sealed by a test end cap 23. The test end cap 23 is pressed tightly against the top of the test conduit 21 by a cover plate 1. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the test conduit 21 is filled with bentonite. The moisture retention of the bentonite ensures the stability of the humidity environment inside the test hole, preventing inaccurate measurements caused by dryness.

[0048] In practical use, the test line 21 provides a convenient port, allowing operators to insert a portable reference electrode into the test hole for potential measurement. The test line 21 and its internal bentonite ensure a stable testing environment during potential measurement. During measurement, the reference electrode is inserted into the test hole, forming a closed loop with the pipe 15, thus allowing the actual protection potential of the pipe 15 to be read. The test line 21 is electrically isolated by the cement base 9 and the nylon mesh 18, reducing the influence of stray currents and ensuring the accuracy of the test results. When manual verification of the test results is required, the operator opens the test end cap 23, inserts the reference electrode, and connects it to the test cable 17 to directly read the actual cathodic protection value from the pipe 15.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, in a specific example provided in this application, a rubber gasket is provided between the top of the body 6 and the cover plate 1 to increase the sealing between the body 6 and the cover plate 1.

[0050] like Figure 1As shown, in a specific example provided in this application, the cathodic protection unit includes a magnesium alloy anode 14 electrically connected to the anode cable 11 and a copper rod 12 electrically connected to the reference cable 10. A packing pack 13 is wrapped around the magnesium alloy anode 14. In this embodiment, the packing pack 13 is used to wrap the magnesium alloy anode 14, ensuring good electrochemical contact and potential stability of the magnesium alloy anode 14 in the soil.

[0051] Understandably, the electro-corrosion of the magnesium alloy anode 14 (low potential) releases electrons to protect the pipeline (high potential), ensuring that the pipeline surface is at a relatively negative potential, thereby preventing the corrosion reaction from occurring. The copper rod 12 forms a stable and reliable reference potential point with the soil, which is used to measure the protective potential near the pipeline.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, in a specific example provided in this application, the connector includes a cover plate bolt 4; the cover plate 1 has an upper connecting hole for mounting the cover plate bolt 4; the top of the body 6 has a lower connecting hole corresponding to the upper connecting hole; the cover plate bolt 4 passes through the upper connecting hole and connects to the lower connecting hole to press the cover plate 1 tightly against the body 6. Specifically, the cover plate 1 where the upper connecting hole is located has a recess for concealing the cover plate bolt 4.

[0053] The specific working principle of the concealed self-testing kit in this application is as follows:

[0054] Potential feedback: When the cathodic protection unit of pipeline 15 is running, the potential of pipeline 15 will change according to the actual situation. The pipeline potential information is fed back to the self-test module 7 through the reference cable 10 and anode cable 11 of the copper rod 12 and magnesium alloy anode 14.

[0055] Saturation voltage setting: Adjust the specifications of transistor 29 according to specific needs to keep its saturation voltage at 0.8V (vsCu / CuSO4 reference electrode) to adapt to different cathodic protection conditions.

[0056] Potential monitoring: When the cathodic protection potential of pipe 15 is higher than the set threshold (such as -0.80V) for some reason, it indicates that the protection effect is not ideal.

[0057] Transistor conduction: When the pipeline protection potential is higher than the set threshold, the potential difference between the magnesium alloy anode 14 (≤-1.6V) and the copper rod 12 is large enough that the voltage between the two N terminals (C and E) of the transistor 29 is greater than its turn-on voltage, thereby turning on the transistor.

[0058] Formation of a galvanic cell: When the transistor 29 is turned on, a circuit is formed between the copper rod 12 and the magnesium alloy anode 14, generating a galvanic cell effect.

[0059] Alarm signal: Powered by the galvanic cell effect, the alarm 32 (such as an indicator light bead / buzzer) is activated, emitting an audible and visual signal to notify maintenance personnel to pay attention to the operating status of the cathodic protection unit.

[0060] The concealed self-test kit operation mode of this application:

[0061] Routine monitoring: Through the transparent acrylic panel 2, operators can observe the indicator light status from the outside without opening the cover panel 1. If the indicator light is not lit, it means the system is operating normally.

[0062] Manual check: If the indicator light stays on, it indicates that there may be a problem with the system. Maintenance personnel need to open cover 1 and measure the actual protection potential by inserting a portable reference electrode to manually check and evaluate the cathodic protection unit.

[0063] Simultaneously, the concealed protective potential self-test box can also be used for pipeline continuity and routing detection. Specifically, after installing the concealed protective potential self-test box, the power supply to the pipeline cathodic protection equipment can be stopped (using the impressed current cathodic protection method) or reverse energization can be applied at a point on the pipeline to manually raise the protective potential above -0.80V. At this time, all concealed protective potential self-test boxes along the pipeline will emit audible / visual alarms, thus achieving pipeline continuity / routing detection.

[0064] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection, characterized in that, include: The body (6) has a receiving chamber (61) with a top opening. A test terminal (22) is provided on the inner wall of the receiving chamber (61). The test terminal (22) is connected to a pipe (15) through a test cable (17). A test pipe (21) extending out of the body (6) is provided in the receiving chamber (61). Cover plate (1), the cover plate (1) is fitted onto the top of the body (6) by a connector, and the upper surface of the cover plate (1) is flush with the road surface; The self-test module (7), located in the housing (61), is installed at the bottom of the housing (61). The self-test module (7) is electrically connected to the cathode protection unit via a cable, and the self-test module (7) is electrically connected to the test terminal (22).

2. The concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The self-test module (7) includes a self-test housing (28) and a test motherboard (27) placed inside the self-test housing (28). The outer periphery of the self-test housing (28) is provided with connecting ears (281) and three terminals (25). The connecting ears (281) are installed at the bottom of the receiving chamber (61) by fixing bolts. The three terminals are respectively connected to the anode cable (11), the reference cable (10) and the test cable (17). The anode cable (11) and the reference cable (10) are electrically connected to the cathodic protection unit. The detection motherboard (27) is electrically connected to each of the terminals (25) via wires.

3. The concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The detection motherboard (27) is equipped with an alarm (32) that passes through the top of the self-test housing (28). The cover plate (1) is provided with a transparent plate (2) for observing the alarm (32).

4. The concealed self-testing test box for cathodic protection as described in claim 3, characterized in that, A buffer pad (3) is provided between the self-test housing (28) and the cover plate (1).

5. The concealed self-testing test box for cathodic protection as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, A cement base (9) is installed at the bottom of the main body (6) to isolate external electrical signals.

6. The concealed self-testing test box for cathodic protection as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The cement base (9) is provided with a first inlet gland (191) and a second outlet gland (192) that connect to the receiving chamber (61). The test cable (17) enters the housing (61) through the first inlet gland (191); The anode cable (11) and the reference cable (10) enter the housing (61) through the second pass (192).

7. The concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection as described in claim 5, characterized in that, One end of the test pipeline (21) passes through the cement base (9) and is sealed by a nylon mesh (18), while the other end is sealed by a test end cap (23), which is pressed against the top of the test pipeline (21) by the cover plate (1).

8. The concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection as described in claim 1, characterized in that, A rubber gasket is provided between the top of the body (6) and the cover plate (1) to increase the sealing between the body (6) and the cover plate (1).

9. The concealed self-testing box for cathodic protection as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The cathode protection unit includes a magnesium alloy anode (14) electrically connected to the anode cable (11) and a copper rod (12) electrically connected to the reference cable (10). The magnesium alloy anode (14) is surrounded by a filler bag (13).

10. The concealed self-testing test box for cathodic protection as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The connector includes cover plate bolts (4); The cover plate (1) is provided with an upper connecting hole for mounting the cover plate bolts (4); The top of the body (6) is provided with a lower connecting hole corresponding to the upper connecting hole; The cover plate bolt (4) passes through the upper connecting hole and connects to the lower connecting hole to press the cover plate (1) against the body (6).

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