John Tarilanyo Afa

Soil Corrosion and Earthing John Tarilanyo Afa

Technical Report from the year 2011 in the subject Geography / Earth Science - Physical Georgraphy, Geomorphology, Environmental Studies, grade: A, Atlantic International University (Niger Delta University), course: SCE 672, language: English, abstract: The purpose of earthing electrical equipment or an installation is to ensure safety. No matter the sensitivity of a protective device, without proper earthing good performance of the device cannot be ensured. One of the major problems of having a continued low earthing resistance is corrosion. Corrosion is not limited to earth electrode only but all electrical equipments, buried metals, undergrounds telecommunication system, etc. The life expectancy of a material or equipment depends on the severity of corrosion in the area (Gonos and Stathopuslos, 2006, Liu et al, 2004). The processes of corrosion are not simple and their effects are not easily predicted. Therefore if the corrosion processes are not controlled it will result to frequent and costly replacement of materials and equipments. Due to the geographic location, the closeness to the ocean, and the soil conditions, the soil of Niger Delta are corrosive. This is particular true with the coastal soil. For this reasons, it was necessary to carry out a study of various soil structure and their corrosivity. Such records when properly presented will serve as a guide in the selection of earthing materials as well as help in the control of corrosion on buried materials.