Alternating Current Interference and Alternating Current Corrosion of Pipelines-Part 1

Pipelines are often located on alternating current (AC) overhead transmission line rights-of-way. Under these circumstances, the likelihood of AC interference and AC corrosion must be evaluated. AC interference can cause elevated step and touch voltages that create unsafe conditions for the pipeline operator and the public. Pipeline construction near AC transmission lines requires additional safety Measures. Part 1 of this article covers safety considerations and Part 2 (in the October 2014 issue of MP) will present an example of a pipeline project that illustrates advances in predictive modeling and the design of AC interference mitigation and monitoring.