Offshore Anode Mounting for Cathodic Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing offshore installations face challenges in arranging anodes for cathodic corrosion protection in a favorable angle relative to the foundation structure, often requiring larger anode sizes due to suboptimal placement, which complicates assembly and increases dynamic loads during installation.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves fastening beams or brackets directly to the underwater foundation structure below the waterline, allowing for more favorable placement of anodes, which can be distributed over the circumference of a monopile, with multiple anodes positioned at angular distances greater than 90°, and supported by diagonal struts or gusset plates, enabling pre-equipment of the monopile with cathodic corrosion protection before seabed installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If anodes are fastened to the jetty or transition piece after foundation installation, then assembly is simplified, but the anodes cannot be arranged at a favorable angle to the foundation structure requiring larger anode sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by fastening the anodes to the foundation structure during the foundation installation process itself, before the jetty is constructed. This allows the anodes to be positioned at optimal angles relative to the foundation while the foundation is still being installed, eliminating the need for larger anodes that would be required if they were installed later when only jetty attachment is feasible.
2Reliability
If anodes are placed at a distance to cover all foundation surfaces, then comprehensive protection is achieved, but the anode arrangement becomes unfavorable and anode size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning anodes at specific locations on the foundation structure where they can most effectively protect the underlying surfaces. By fastening anodes directly to the foundation during installation, they can be placed in optimal positions relative to the surfaces requiring protection, allowing smaller anodes to provide comprehensive coverage through strategic placement rather than requiring large anodes positioned at a distance.
3Reliability
If multiple anodes are distributed over the monopile circumference, then protection coverage is improved, but the number of fastening points and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the anode fastening process with the foundation installation process itself. Multiple anodes are fastened to the monopile during the single installation operation, combining what would otherwise be separate assembly steps. This reduces overall assembly complexity despite the presence of multiple anodes, as they are all installed simultaneously as part of the foundation placement rather than requiring separate subsequent assembly operations.
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
This configuration allows for effective cathodic corrosion protection of the foundation structure with smaller anodes, manageable dynamic loads during installation, and comprehensive coverage of the monopile circumference, enhancing protection efficiency and assembly simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
a device for cathodic corrosion protection for the underwater foundation structure, having at least two anodes arranged at a distance from one another
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an offshore installation, comprising an underwater foundation structure, a construction placed onto the foundation structure, a docking device for a boat, and a device for cathodic corrosion protection for the underwater foundation structure, said device having at least two anodes (2), which are arranged at a distance from each other and are each fastened to a beam (4) or a support of the foundation structure, the extension arms or the supports being connected directly to the foundation structure below the waterline.