Pipeline inspection gauges – cathodic protection

Pipeline inspection gauges (PIGs) are demanding users of battery power. Originally created simply to remove internal objects that might obstruct or restrict the oil flow, today’s PIGs are sophisticated and sensitive devices. Their role is to provide information on the internal state and performance of pipelines by traveling through the pipe looking closely at the internal surfaces, weld integrity, the state of cathodic protection and potential corrosion.

High vibration batteries for PIGs

A single inspection project might cover more than 70 km of continuous pipeline. So the battery that powers the data collection device must be able to function fully and reliably from start to finish. The PIG battery may have to contend with:

• high temperatures, as oil may be heated to achieve a better flow
• shock
• vibration

Typically, PIGs will be powered by Saft primary lithium batteries (LS, LSH, LM, LO) or sometimes small Li-ion batteries (MP).

Large stationary batteries for cathodic protection

Cathodic protection (CP) is an electrochemical process used to protect metal structures from corrosion. These include steel water/fuel pipelines and storage tanks, pier piles, ships, offshore oil platforms and onshore oil well casings.

Saft Ni-Cd (Sunica.plus, SBLE, SBM, SBH, SPH, Ultima SLM) batteries are used widely to provide the constant, reliable power required for this demanding application.