Optimising the location of anodes in cathodic protection systems to smooth potential distribution

Optimisation methods combined with the Boundary Elements Technology have become a useful technique to analyse this situation. Up to now, studies have been carried out using few anodes to optimise their current and positions on flat surfaces. Since the real structure of a vessel, for instance, is not flat, it becomes necessary a tool which allows for the optimisation of the position and the current no matter the shape of the model. The surface could be made of curve elements and even so the optimisation would give correct results. In this paper, the development of this tool and its performance is analysed on the studies of the hull of a frigate.