CHAPTER 6
Stray Current Interference
CP 1 – Cathodic Protection Tester Course Manual
©
NACE International, 2000
02/01/05
Definitions
Interference
is any electrical disturbance on a metallic
structure caused by a
stray current
. Stray current
may be defined as current flowing on a structure
that is not part of the intended electrical circuit. For corrosion to occur as the
result of stray currents there must be an exchange of current between a
metallic structure and an electrolytic environment.
Effects
Direct stray currents, as opposed to alternating stray currents, have the most
pronounced effect on corrosion. Direct current (DC) flows continuously in
one direction. Alternating current (AC60H
z
commercial power) reverses
direction 120 times per second. Although there are exceptions, alternating
currents do not cause significant corrosion of common structural materials.
AC current can be a significant safety hazard.
In accordance with Faraday's law, the weight of metal corroded is
proportional to the amount of current being discharged from it into the
electrolyte. Stray current corrosion is of serious concern because a large
amount of current is usually involved. Whereas natural corrosion may
generate milliamperes worth of current, stray current can involve hundreds of
amperes. A current of 100 amperes (entirely reasonable with some rail transit
systems) would destroy 910 kg (2,000 lbs.) of steel in one year.
Consequently, when stray current is found, it is necessary to find the source
and implement a solution.
Sources
Stray currents can be produced by any system conducting an electric
current that has two or more points of contact with an electrolyte. These
points of contact must have a voltage between them.
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