Farwest Super CP Diode Assembly 1

Cathodic protection pipeline interference bonds are a reality for pipeline operators.  Electrically bonding two or more adjacent or crossing pipelines is a necessity to prevent inadvertent corrosion caused cathodic protection (CP) interference. 

Electrically bonding pipelines together is achieved by making a cable connection between the two (or more) pipelines.  This direct bond allows the offending pipeline the ability to provide CP current to the other pipeline(s), thereby eliminating cathodic interference.  However, if the CP system fails for any reason, both pipelines are no longer protected by CP. 

To prevent this from occurring, diodes are often installed in series with the bond cable, which allows CP current to flow in one direction, preventing reverse current flow in the event of a CP system outage.  Unfortunately, a typical diode introduces a high level of voltage drop, as much as 0.700 volts, to the electrical circuit, which can significantly lower the available CP current needed to provide adequate protection levels.

THE SOLUTION

The Farwest Super CP Diode Assembly is a device that uses a “Super Diode” to allow a high level of CP current, as much as 10 amps, to pass through the pipeline bond while greatly reducing the voltage drop across the diode.  The reduction of voltage drop is approximately 15 times less than a conventional diode, which greatly reduces CP current loss.  Because of its high efficiency, there is no need for an external heat sink often needed with conventional diodes.

SOLUTION BENEFITS

·         Simple installation – two wires to connect

·         Very low voltage drop across the diode - 0.040V @ 10 amps

·         Allows up to 10 amps DC to pass

·         Blocks reverse current

PRODUCT DETAILS

·         The diode assembly is fully encapsulated for weather resistance.

·         Provided with two, #12 AWG stranded insulated cables, red & black, 12” long.

·         Current direction is indicated on diode housing.

HOW TO ORDER 

·         Specify Farwest part number 13-40031

·         Indicate the required quantity

ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION

The Super CP Diode Assembly should be installed in a cathodic protection test station or bond box. To help reduce voltage drop or resistance, the provided cables should be cut shorter but allowing enough length to make the electrical connections in the enclosure.

1. 1.      Determine the correct electrical terminals to connect the two wires.  The assembly wires must be installed in series with the pipeline bond cable.
2. 2.      Cut the provided wires to the required length.
3. 3.      Remove the cable insulation to allow connection to a ring or spade terminal connector.  Be careful not to cut any of the cable strands as that will increase circuit resistance.
4. 4.      Crimp the terminal connector to the cables.
5. 5.      Attach each terminal connector to the appropriate electrical terminal inside the test station or bond box. 
6. 6.      Tighten the termination hardware to ensure there is a solid, low resistance electrical connection between the Super CP Diode Assembly and the terminals.

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