Cathodic protection monitoring
SmartClamp™ subsea pipeline cathodic protection test station

SmartClamp is a self-contained CP test station for subsea pipelines, powered by the lights of the ROV.

The Polatrak SmartClamp is a cathodic protection (CP) test-station comprised of three Deepwater/ Polatrak products: a RetroClamp (ROV-or-diver-installed tubular clamp) fitted with a SunStation permanent subsea readout and a V-String zinc reference electrode. This combination results in a cost-effective, self-contained CP test-station ideal for unburied subsea pipelines and tubular members. The SmartClamp can eliminate corrosion survey costs in any subsea application where ROV-assisted work is routinely conducted. No CP probes are required for the ROV to visually interrogate the SmartClamp with its light and report the cathodic protection potentials via video camera.

Each SunStation is a single-channel device with an independent ground and powered by a solar panel, which makes it perfect for integration into the SmartClamp test station. The RetroClamp can be easily mounted by ROV to any tubular member, including pipelines. Contact is made via tightening the T-Handle, which can be equipped with a bit to penetrate concrete weight-coat without damaging the pipe.

SmartClamps should be strategically placed at locations where ROV intervention is normally required; a CP inspection can be reported whenever the ROV visits.

Applications

Unburied subsea pipelines

The SmartClamp can be easily retrofitted on an unburied subsea pipeline with divers or ROV, depending on the water depth. Once installed, the system can be interrogated by an ROV or a diver with a hand torch. It is ideal for risers and points along a pipeline where no topside interface is available.

Tubular members at critical points on fixed structures

For structures and other subsea equipment, the SmartClamp can be placed near any critical area and attached to any tubular member. The RetroClamp system that attaches the reference electrode and readout comes in standard sizes from 6 inches to 36 inches. Custom sizes as well as flange-mount systems are also available.

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Anywhere ROV CP inspection is required

Potential applications for the SmartClamp are endless. For areas where more complex monitoring is available or pipelines are buried, please see the SmartStation system for examples of how Polatrak components can be customized to suit virtually any monitoring requirement.

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Key design points

1. Eliminates the need for OQ personnel offshore

A survey with SmartClamp requires no corrosion specialist in the inspection crew. Any ROV operator is qualified to take a video reading, and therefore conduct a full cathodic protection survey.

2. Provides repeatable accurate data and eliminates operator error.

Since the units will be interrogated repeatedly in the same location and position without outside interference, the data they provide are more accurate and reliable for cathodic-protection engineers.

3. Provides verification of electrical continuity or isolation

The nature of the system's configuration and the way it measures CP also creates a built-in verification for proper connection when the system is installed. This largely eliminates the need for a cathodic-protection specialist to be present during installation.

4. Eliminates the hassle of ROV-interfaced probes

With the reference electrode permanently mounted, there is no need for tip-contact (or "stabbing") probes, which require maintenance and a specific knowledge of how corrosion-testing probes work. Conducting surveys without probes also means reduced wear-and-tear on the ROV systems.