Evolving CP System Management: Creation of an Automated Screening Framework for RMU Analysis (C2026-00154)

Yufei Shen, Ryan Phillips, Paul Fallis, Paul Murray

This study presents a framework for establishing the upper and lower DC current thresholds for rectifiers by leveraging Remote Monitoring Unit (RMU) data to enhance system-wide monitoring and identify abnormal operational behavior. Historical RMU amperage data was consolidated, cleansed and a 30-point moving average methodology was applied to smooth the data. Statistical truncation removed fringe values at the lower bounds of the refined dataset to improve clarity and increase accuracy of the calculated DC current limits. Rectifiers across the entire asset management portfolio were then catalogued and DC current range was graphically represented on a histogram to perform system-wide screening and identification of outlier extremes. Program subject matter experts analyzed the outliers, identified priority sites for intervention and manually revised the calculated DC current limits to generate practical monitoring thresholds. The finalized thresholds were integrated into the corrosion prevention database and programmed into the physical RMUs enabling Field Operations to assess cathodic protection (CP) system performance in real time. Additionally, a visualization tool was developed to facilitate efficient review of the established limits alongside historical current readings and relevant metadata for each RMU. This framework enables predictive integrity management, fosters intelligent investment decision-making and streamlines monotonous manual site-by-site analysis.