Comparative Analyses of Modeling Techniques for Cathodic Protection

Abstract

The investigation in this paper provided an outline of the used scientific models for the cathodic protection framework modeling and relatively assessed current modeling strategies. The Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) investigation was applied in six alternatives and five criteria. Among the criteria, a high criticality was put on the strengths in complex geometries and the unwavering quality of the results. From the study outcomes, it can be established that the best cathodic protection modeling technique considering a number of factors like, the strength in complex geometries like subsea structures, simplicity of use, time allotment required for estimation, industry track record and robustness of the results was the Finite Element Method (FEM) with a score of 0.73 which is a value of relative closeness to the ideal solution of 1. The second best modeling procedure was Boundary Element Method (BEM) having a value of 0.72, while the least cathodic protection modeling method was analytical models with a TOPSIS score of 0.3372. Regardless of FEM rising as the best cathodic protection modeling technique, the significant detriment related with it is the timeframe required for the estimation. Finally, this research concluded by showing different models performance and comparison made with the numerical results. It is expected that the result of this work will be of significant help for the strengthening of the application of TOPSIS for offshore/subsea engineers.