ICCP for Ship
ICCP stands for Impressed Current Cathodic Protection. It is a method of protecting metal surfaces from corrosion by making them the cathode of an electrochemical cell. Unlike sacrificial anode systems, ICCP uses an external power source to provide a continuous current to counteract the electrochemical reactions that cause corrosion.
Overview
How ICCP Works
Cathodic Protection Principle
Corrosion occurs when metal surfaces come into contact with seawater, creating electrochemical reactions that cause the metal to degrade.
Cathodic protection works by making the metal surface (the hull) the cathode of an electrochemical cell, thereby preventing its oxidation and corrosion.
Components of ICCP System
Anodes: ICCP systems use inert anodes made of materials like titanium coated with a noble metal oxide.
Power Supply: A DC power source is used to impress a current onto the ship’s hull.
Reference Electrodes: These measure the electrochemical potential of the hull and help regulate the current to maintain the desired protection level.
Control Unit: Manages the system, ensuring the correct amount of current is delivered to provide adequate protection.
Operation
The anodes are placed on the hull of the ship below the waterline.
The DC power supply provides current to the anodes, which then flow through the seawater to the hull.
This current flow changes the electrochemical environment around the hull, preventing the oxidation (corrosion) of the hull material.
Picture of ICCP for Ship
