Monitoring is essential for effective cathodic protection (CP). A properly wired test station allows you to measure both protected and unprotected potentials — giving clear insight into whether your pipeline or tank remains safely protected, or if there are coating defects or dead zones.

Wiring & Connection Schemes

1. Single Test Piece Configuration

If only one test coupon (corrosion test piece) is installed, connect it to the pipeline via the test post wiring.

Use a reference electrode (usually Cu/CuSO₄) in soil near the coupon to measure unprotected potential.

This method gives a reliable baseline for “holiday-equivalent” condition, useful for coating integrity checks.

2. Dual Test Piece Configuration

With two coupons: one is bonded to the pipeline (connected to the pipe and CP circuit), the other remains isolated (native).

The bonded coupon measures the protected potential under CP, while the isolated coupon shows the unprotected (free-corrosion) potential.

This allows comparison between protected vs. unprotected conditions — ideal for tracking protection efficiency and spotting coating faults or CP failures.

In both configurations, a reference electrode placed near the coupon (or inside the test station riser) provides a stable baseline, minimizing IR-drop errors and yielding accurate potential readings.

Why This Matters

Enables detection of stray current interference, or insufficient CP coverage.

Helps verify performance of SACP or ICCP systems over time without deactivating the entire CP system.

Supports preventive maintenance by spotting issues early, avoiding corrosion damage before it becomes structural.

As part of our comprehensive CP offerings, we supply test stations, reference electrodes, coupons, wiring kits — ensuring you have everything needed for accurate, reliable monitoring.