Modeling of electromagnetic fields of pipelines cathodic protection systems in horizontally-layered media

Calculations for main pipeline cathodic protection systems are regulated by the applicable standards based on condition of specific electrical conductivity uniformity and continuity in half-space environment containing the pipeline. Modern mathematical models of such systems also use the averaged value of the soil specific electrical conductivity, which does not reflect actual parameters of the ground where the pipeline is laid down. The authors present the procedure considering thickness and specific electrical conductivity of the soil layers with vertical non-uniform, horizontally layered environmen. Importance to consider the effect of the environment structure and specific electrical resistance on the current protection potential in the underground main pipeline cathodic protection system was shown using simulation experiment method; magnetic field sensitivity was studied based on insulation resistance of the pipeline defective section and measurement level.