Close Interval Potential - CIP Survey

Close Interval Potential - CIP Survey

CIP Survey (CIPS) identifies area of unacceptably high or low potentials, caused, for example, by interference from other structures, coating damage or current drain to foreign objects. Intensive potential measurement at short intervals (1- 2 m) along the entire pipeline length.

CIP Survey utilize data logger such as digital voltmeter with built-in features to read, report, remember, recall the On/Off potential field data and sub-meter GPS antenna which gives a relative indication of how good the coating is. CIP determines On/Off potential complying with CP criteria either low, medium or high potential excursions while all coating assessment techniques are sensitive to field conditions and differs depends on type of soil, paved, depth of cover, type of coating and more.

The combination of DCVG and CIP Survey techniques could also be performed depends upon the condition of the protective coating on the pipeline and the information or results that are required by the Client.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Close Interval Potential (CIP) Survey

CIP Surveys: Approach to Pipeline Protection

Detect Coating Defects: CIP surveys pinpoint areas of deteriorated pipeline coating.
Assess Corrosion Severity: Measure "potential drop" to determine corrosion severity at specific locations.
Evaluate CP Effectiveness: Assess the effectiveness of cathodic protection systems.
Maintain Pipeline Integrity: Enable early detection of issues for long-term pipeline health.

Benefits of CIP Survey

Provide profile of the protection level over the pipeline
Interference currents if not interrupted in synchronization may distort the accuracy of the results.
In interconnected parallel pipelines, accumulated potential may masks the defect.
Indicate areas affected by interferences and coating defects.
Provide additional data related to cathodic protection along the pipeline that may not be measurable at test posts only.

Case Studies

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