Cathelco ICCP - Marine Plant Systems

TopAnode 3 Anode 1Anode 1SternBowStbd.Ref 2 Ref 1PortAnode 2REF ElectrodeBottomAnode 4 Anode 2Large Thruster TunnelICCP SystemsBow and stern thruster protection isa specialised area where Cathelcohave developed a system whichis uniquely effective in providingcorrosion protection.The Star Ismene is fitted withbow and stern thruster tunnelICCP SystemsProblems of corrosion arise because of the dissimilarityof the materials used in the hull and thruster tunnelconstruction and remain unchecked because they areoutside the scope of conventional ICCP systems.Cathelco’s thruster tunnel systems are installed onocean going vessels, harbour tugs and in offshore oiland gas applications.The equipment consists of a power unit/controllerand an arrangement of reference cells and anodespositioned on either side of the tunnel. The anodes andreference electrodes are flush mounted to maintain theoptimum performance of the thrusters and reduce theeffects of turbulence which can accelerate corrosion.This has a number of advantages in comparison withsacrificial anode systems where anodes are muchheavier, have to be checked at regular intervalsand replaced at each drydocking. In contrast, theCathelco system provides carefully monitored,precisely delivered corrosion protection for a designlife of up to 15 years.The system operates continuously when the vesselis at sea, but when the impeller is activated duringdocking, the equipment is automatically shut downusing a fail-safe switching system which is installedby the shipyard. This prevents any stray currentdamage occurring to the bearings and seals.Example of corrosion in and around thruster tunnel.