A native potential survey is a close interval survey method that measures a structure’s electrical potential before cathodic protection is applied, establishing a baseline for determining the level of protection needed. Since potential changes permanently once current is applied, this baseline can only be captured before a CP system goes live.
Native potential does not determine if corrosion is taking place or the level of corrosion. It documents the structure’s starting condition so the 100 mV polarization criterion and future survey data have a valid reference point. Once current is applied to the pipeline, it is never again native—if a native survey isn’t possible, a depolarized survey may be used to establish base corrosion data.
Qualified MATCOR technical personnel conduct native potential surveys in the field for oil, gas, and water pipelines. Data is then analyzed by NACE certified experts.
Native potential survey services include:
- Close interval native potential data collection
- GPS-synchronized readings along the right-of-way
- Data analysis by NACE certified corrosion professionals
- Baseline documentation for CP criteria compliance
