In a pipe to soil potential profile, which lead is connected to the pipe?

In the context of a pipe to soil potential profile, connecting the positive lead to the pipe is essential for accurate measurements. When performing a potential measurement between a pipe and the surrounding soil, the socket connections establish a known reference point and allow for the determination of the electrochemical potential of the pipe system relative to the soil.

By connecting the positive lead to the pipe, you are effectively measuring the potential of the pipe itself, which reflects its condition regarding cathodic protection. The negative lead is typically connected to a reference electrode, which is placed in the soil at some distance from the pipe. This setup enables the calculation of the potential gradient and can help identify areas needing attention or improvement in cathodic protection measures.

Understanding this arrangement is vital because it directly impacts the interpretation of corrosion rates, the effectiveness of the cathodic protection system, and the overall integrity of the pipeline. Accurate measurements will help in making informed decisions about maintenance and necessary repairs to protect the pipe from corrosion.