Methods and assemblies for electrically grounding and corrosion-protecting a metallic structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing metallic structures, such as utility poles and anchor rods, face challenges in electrical grounding and corrosion protection, particularly when buried in the earth, as current methods do not effectively prevent water ingress and corrosion while ensuring electrical conductivity.

Innovation Solution

A water impermeable and electrically conductive cementitious surround is applied to buried portions of metallic structures, comprising a cementitious matrix with particulate carbonaceous material like calcined petroleum coke, which provides both corrosion protection and electrical grounding, and can include a brace for additional support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a cementitious surround is applied to provide both protection and grounding, then dual functionality is achieved, but material composition complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual functionalityVSAvoidmaterial composition

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functional components (cement binder, aggregate, water, and carbonaceous conductive additives) into a single composite material system. This allows the application of one material layer that simultaneously provides mechanical protection, water impermeability, and electrical conductivity, reducing the need for multiple separate layers or treatments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The conductive cementitious material serves multiple functions: structural support, corrosion barrier, water impermeability, and electrical grounding. By designing a universal material that performs all these functions, the patent reduces system complexity despite the enhanced material composition, as it eliminates the need for separate protective coatings and grounding systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution effectively prevents corrosion and ensures electrical grounding of metallic structures, maintaining structural integrity and safety by forming a strong, water-impermeable barrier that withstands environmental conditions.

Implementation Method 1

A water impermeable and electrically conductive cementitious surround is applied to at least a section of the portion that is buried in the earth

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

A water impermeable and electrically conductive cementitious surround is applied to at least a section of the portion that is buried in the earth

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWater impermeability:

Data Source

PatentUS20230313483A1Methods and assemblies for electrically grounding and corrosion-protecting a metallic structure

Publication Date: 2023.10.05 SHORE ACRES ENTERPRISES INC D B A SAE

AI summary

An electrically grounded and corrosion-protected assembly includes a utility pole having a bottom portion that is buried in the earth. A water impermeable and electrically conductive cementitious surround is applied to at least a section of the portion that is buried in the earth. The surround is in direct contact with the section and is between the section and the earth. A brace is embedded in the surround and supports the utility pole. The brace may include an aggregate such as gravel.