Pipeline 101

Cathodic Protection: Protecting the buried pipeline against corrosion

Alyeska employs a comprehensive prevention, monitoring and control program to mitigate corrosion on the buried pipeline. An important component of this program is the cathodic protection system. Cathodic protection works by changing the flow of electrons – the electrical current – so that the electrons come onto the steel instead of away from it. The cathodic protection system on the pipeline uses zinc (anode), which has a higher natural electrical potential than steel (cathode), to change the electrical current.

Cathodic protection is provided on all critical buried hydrocarbon-containing piping and tanks, on TAPS mainline, in pump stations, and at the Valdez Marine Terminal, in accordance with federal and state regulations, industry standards, and good engineering practice.