Abstract: A cathodic protection system comprising a short message system (SMS) transceiver. The SMS transceiver comprises a modem having a telephone number uniquely associated with it and a processor coupled to the modem. The processor is configured to retrieve sensor data from an input module of the cathodic protection system in response to an incoming SMS message from a remote telecommunication device when the incoming SMS message complies with a predetermined format. The processor is also configured to retrieve output voltage and current data from a rectifier monitor of the cathodic protection system in response to an incoming SMS message from the remote telecommunication device when the incoming SMS message complies with the predetermined format. The processor then sends the retrieved data to the remote telecommunication device via an outgoing SMS message.

Abstract: Controlling electric power inputs to cathodic protection rectifiers and monitoring the rectifiers. A rectifier controller connects between the power source and the rectifier and adds remote control and monitoring features to the rectifier. In an aspect, the rectifier controller described herein enables a user to control the rectifier over the entire output range rather than merely at tap-step settings. In another aspect, the rectifier controller described herein enables remote monitoring and control of the rectifier.

Abstract: In an embodiment, an impressed current cathodic protection system includes at least one parallel-charge, serial-discharge supercapacitor bank to increase the duty cycle of the system. In another embodiment, the output of the parallel-charge, serial-discharge supercapacitor bank is applied to an anode using pulse width modulation to apply the correct amount of current to maintain a mesh potential at a desired value. In yet another embodiment, an impressed current cathodic protection system includes a microcomputer controller configured to maximize efficiency of the system.

Abstract: A welding tool is disclosed comprising a working electrode and a ground electrode. A tool body comprises means for holding the electrodes in a contiguous, spaced-apart, side-by-side relationship. The electrodes are movable along parallel axes to and away from the tool body. A first compression spring biases the working electrode away from the tool body, and a second compression spring biases the ground electrode away from the tool body. The electrodes comprise stops by which the electrodes are positioned at a predetermined distance from the tool body against the bias of the compression springs. A switch responsive to movement of the working electrode, on movement from said predetermined distance toward the tool body, closes an electrical circuit to supply power to the electrodes. The welding tool comprises means by which the electrodes can be applied to a common side of the workpieces being welded, or to opposite aligned sides of the workpieces being welded.