An intentional electrical connection between structures. Continuity bonds join pipe sections across mechanical couplings so the line carries current end to end; interference bonds connect a foreign line to a CP system so stray current has a metallic path home, usually through a resistor that sets the flow. Bonds are made in test stations or bond boxes and are checked for current direction and size on every survey.
Put a resistance bond in at the crossing, the foreign line is dumping current onto ours.
Also heard as
- resistance bond
- continuity bond
- interference bond
Related terms
Interference
Unwanted DC or AC current picked up from another source, which corrodes a structure where it leaves.
Foreign line
Field term for another operator's pipeline or buried metal structure near or crossing your own.
Test station
Above-ground post or box with wires bonded to a buried structure, used to take CP readings.
Insulating joint
Fitting that electrically isolates one pipe section from another so CP current stays where it belongs.