Grounding and Cathodic Protection of Pipes for Pipe-Type Feeders

Grounding of the pipe is necessary to assure a low-impedance path for line-to-ground faults and to reduce voltages on the pipe caused by induction from overhead lines, switching surges, and lightning. The requirements for grounding are basic and should not be compromised by the cathodic protection scheme. Cathodic protection methods now in use appear to meet the twofold requirements of grounding and corrosion protection. Experience will provide the test of the adequacy of the various methods. In this paper it has been possible to discuss only briefly the grounding and cathodic protection methods. However, results of the discussion suggest that new and better methods of cathodic protection may be conceived. For greatest usefulness these methods should meet the following criteria: 1. Simplicity. 2. Provision for fault current continuity. 3. Flexibility of direct voltage adjustment. 4. Ease of inspection and maintenance. 5. No interference with fault locating methods. 6. No corrosion interference effects on other structures.