Cathodic protection was restored while the ship was in the water, without waiting for the next dry-docking.
A damaged ICCP anode or a reference electrode that is out of service leaves parts of the hull unprotected. Waiting until the vessel is docked can mean months of accelerated corrosion. In many systems, replacement can be performed while the vessel is afloat, by divers, in port, or in a sheltered area.
When a dive repair is recommended
- Anode or reference electrode alarm on the ICCP panel
- Output current is zero or well below normal at one or more anodes
- Hull potential outside the protection zone
- Mechanical damage identified during an underwater inspection
- Galvanic (sacrificial) anodes consumed before docking
- Remote docking, or a contract that does not allow for extended stops
What We Do for Scuba Diving
Any submerged item connected to ICCP and MGPS systems:
– ICCP anodes and reference electrodes
– Galvanic anodes made of aluminum, zinc, and magnesium (hull, rudder, propeller, sea cocks)
– MGPS components accessible from the outside
– Underwater inspection with photo and video documentation
How We Work
- Onboard diagnostics: electrical tests on the rectifier, cables, and anodes to pinpoint the fault
- Dive plan: analysis of the type of anode, its position on the hull, and site conditions
- Underwater replacement: performed by a partner diving team with all the certifications required for underwater operations, under the technical coordination of MCP Marine
- Recommissioning: insulation test, rectifier adjustment, and hull potential measurement (reference DNV-RP-B401)
- Technical Report: Cause of the Failure, Work Performed, Measurements, and Recommendations
Security
- Electrical isolation of the system (rectifier shutdown) throughout the entire dive
- Risk Assessment and Work Authorization for the Crew
- MCP Marine technicians with IRATA certification and all applicable Brazilian National Standards (NRs) and training required for offshore assignments
- Certified diving team for underwater operations
Advantages
- No dredging: no dike costs and no lost operating days
- Speed: Protection restored in days, not months
- Less corrosion: the hull is protected again immediately after the diagnosis
Frequently Asked Questions
Can every ICCP anode be replaced by immersion?
No. It depends on the anode model and how it is attached to the hull. Many modern systems have anodes designed for underwater replacement. We assess your system before offering the service.
Do you guys also replace sacrificial anodes (zinc, aluminum, magnesium) between dives?
Yes. The replacement of galvanic anodes is included in the diving service, in addition to the supply of the anodes.
What about the reference electrodes?
They can also be replaced by immersion in many systems, following the same process.
Does it work with systems from any manufacturer?
Yes. We serve K.C. LTD, Cathelco, Wilson Walton/Corrpro, and any other manufacturer.
Do I need to have the new anodes on board?
If there are no spare parts, we’ll provide them. Imported anodes take about 40 days to arrive, so it’s a good idea to keep a minimum supply on board or plan ahead.
Talk to a technician now
WhatsApp +55 21 99512-0824 · +55 21 2088-8137 · info@mcpmarine.com.br
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Related links: ICCP Cathodic Protection · Annual Inspection · Article: ICCP or Sacrificial Anodes?
