When 2 or more CP systems interfere with one another, there is a likelihood for:

The situation described involves two or more cathodic protection (CP) systems interacting, which can lead to the phenomenon known as stray currents. Stray currents occur when electrical currents unintentionally flow through the environment, typically due to differences in potential between the CP systems. This unintended flow can have several negative impacts, such as accelerated corrosion of equipment or pipeline materials located in the vicinity of the interference.

When CP systems are not properly designed or if they are competing for the same area, it disrupts the intended protective electrochemical reactions and may also lead to significant differences in electrical potential. This can cause currents to divert from their intended paths, forming stray currents that do not contribute positively to corrosion control, but instead contribute to corrosion in unintended areas.

Understanding this interaction is crucial because effective cathodic protection relies on the controlled application of electricity to prevent corrosion. Stray currents must be managed to ensure that the integrity of the pipeline is maintained, avoiding the risk of increased corrosion and associated failures.