1|Page

Cathodic Protection
Technologist Level 3

Theory and Case-Based

Exams

Exam Preparation Guide

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
2|Page

Table of Contents
Target Audience............................................................................................................................................ 3
How do I know that I have the knowledge and skills needed for this level of Certification? ................ 3
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 3
A. Knowledge and Skills Assessment Guidance ............................................................................................... 5
How do I become Certified at this level? .................................................................................................... 6
Certification Requirements .......................................................................................................................... 6
A. Certification Progression Note ......................................................................................................................... 6
What will the Certification Exam be like? ................................................................................................... 7
Certification Exam Information .................................................................................................................... 7
A. Exam Elements – Theory and Cased-Based ................................................................................................ 7
B. Exam Elements – Sample Exam Questions .................................................................................................. 8
C. Exam Elements – Use of Calculators ............................................................................................................. 8
D. Exam Elements – Provided Exam Resources ............................................................................................... 9

Appendices:
Appendix A – Exam Blueprint Information related to Knowledge and Skills
Appendix B – Exam Preparation Training and Study Materials
Appendix C – Equation Preparation and Study Materials
Appendix D – Table / Scale Preparation and Study Materials
Appendix E – Certification Requirements
Appendix F – Sample Exam Questions
Appendix G – Exam Calculator

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_VerA
3|Page

Target Audience
AMPP Cathodic Protection Technologist certification is targeted towards Candidates who
have extensive field experience. Candidates for this exam should have a strong
knowledge and understanding of both the theoretical concepts and the practical application
of cathodic protection. Candidates should have a good understanding of mathematical
procedures and a working knowledge of corrosion processes.

How do I know that I have the knowledge and skills needed for this
level of Certification?

Introduction
The Cathodic Protection Technologist Exam (CP 3) is designed to assess the necessary
knowledge and skills of candidates who desire to be granted industry recognition as an
AMPP certified - Cathodic Protection Technologist.

1. Candidates for this exam should have a thorough understanding of the theoretical
concepts and the practical application of cathodic protection, including the:
a. Knowledge and understanding of theoretical CP concepts,
b. Knowledge and skills to perform most types of field level measurements and
surveys,
c. Knowledge and skills related to procedures and the performance of how field level
data is obtained and accepted,
d. Knowledge and skills related to the interpretation of cathodic protection data,
e. Knowledge and skills related to the troubleshooting of all type of cathodic protection
systems,
f. Knowledge and skills related to the mitigation options available for identified
problems,
g. Knowledge and skills related to the basic-to-intermediate design calculations for
galvanic and impressed current protection system designs.

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
4|Page

To help clarify intended roles and responsibilities, the following table provides guidance of
the technical oversight (supervision 1) for a Cathodic Protection Technologist:

Task Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP3)

Testing • Can perform, lead, and document most levels of cathodic protection
testing, measurement, survey, and/or inspection services
• Is able to recognize and perform additional field testing as required,
including troubleshooting.
• Is able to recognize where highly complex or unique testing or
inspections are encountered that may require direct oversight or
support of a Cathodic Protection Specialist (CP4)
Data Analysis • Is able to understand how the data was obtained (procedures and
performance)
• Is able to interpret and analyze the data, including an understanding
of the underlying electrochemistry of the situation.
• Is able to recognize where highly complex or unique situations are
encountered that may require direct oversight or support of a
Cathodic Protection Specialist (CP4)
Installation • Can provide installation support and recommendation for most
Support situations
• Is able to recognize where highly complex or unique situations are
encountered that may require direct oversight or support of a
Cathodic Protection Specialist (CP4)
Commissioning • Is able to perform and lead most commission activities
• Is able to determine and provide oversight for commissioning that
can be performed by a Cathodic Protection Technician (CP2)
• Is able to recognize where highly complex or unique situations are
encountered that may require direct oversight or support of a
Cathodic Protection Specialist (CP4)
Design • Is able to lead basic-to-intermediate level galvanic current designs
on single structure systems.
• Is able to recognize when the design for complex, critical, or high-
risk structures may require direct oversight of a Cathodic Protection
Specialist (CP4)
Supervision • As required by the owner /agency and or AMPP guidelines for direct
Authority / indirect supervision of CP1 and CP2 certified individuals.
This table is for guideline and reference purposes only. See the AMPP website for more information.

1 The term “supervision” refers to technical oversight and not general supervision of employment.

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
5|Page

A. Knowledge and Skills Assessment Guidance

Candidates can review the information attached to this exam preparation guide (EPG) to
perform a self-assessment and / or as a study guide for this level of certification –
Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP3).

Because this certification is currently the second highest-level credential for Cathodic
Protection, there are knowledge and skills which are unique to this level. A part of this
body of knowledge and skill may need to have been obtained at lower CP certification
levels.

The following critical areas of this exam preparation guide (EPG) can help you prepare
for this certification exam:

See Appendix A of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for

exam blueprint information related to knowledge and skills.

See Appendix B of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for

preparation training and study materials .

See Appendix C of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for

equation preparation and study materials .

See Appendix D of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for

table / scale preparation and study materials .

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
6|Page

How do I become Certified at this level?

Certification Requirements
There are requirements that a Candidate must meet in order to be granted industry
credentialing as an AMPP Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP3). These requirements
are:

1. Meet work experience and education requirements

2. Meet prerequisite requirements

3. Take and successfully complete all required exam(s)

4. Complete and apply for certification.

5. Accept terms and conditions

6. Pay application fee where applicable

See Appendix E of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for more information
on certification requirements.

A. Certification Progression Note

The Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP 3) is not intended as a direct progression from
Cathodic Protection Technician (CP 2). The Candidate needs additional industry
experience and knowledge:
• Additional experience beyond that of a CP 2 is critical to a candidate’s success on
this exam. This experience relates to all aspects of CP including:
o Practical testing and design experience across the different types of facilities and
electrolytes, and
o Formal or equivalent CP educational experience and knowledge studies related to
such areas as : math, geology, chemistry, and / or engineering

• Prior to scheduling the Cathodic Protection Technologist exam (CP 3) it is strongly

recommended that candidates successfully complete or have an equivalent level
of training to:
o Cathodic Protection Technician Course (CP 2)

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
7|Page

• Prior to scheduling the Cathodic Protection Technologist exam (CP 3) it is strongly

recommended that candidates successfully complete or have an equivalent level
of training to:
o Cathodic Protection Technologist Course (CP 3)

What will the Certification Exam be like?

Certification Exam Information

There are certification exam requirements that a Candidate must meet in order to be an
AMPP Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP3). The Cathodic Protection Technologist
Exam includes exam questions related to Theory and to Case-based or scenario studies.
More information is provided below:

A. Exam Elements – Theory and Cased-Based

1. Theory Exam - in summary consists of 75 multiple-choice questions that

require the candidate to demonstrate their “application of knowledge” based on
the entire Cathodic Protection (CP) body of knowledge.

AMPP -Cathodic Protection Technologist

Exam Name
Theory Exam
Exam Code NACE-CP3-0012
Time 4 hours 3
Number of 70 exam questions that are scored
Questions 5 exam questions that are unscored4

Format Computer Based Testing- CBT

2
The Theory and Case-Based exams are administered separately. You will receive a pass/fail grade upon
completion of each exam. Candidates must pass both exams.
3
Exam time includes 4 minutes for the non-disclosure agreement and 6 minutes for the system tutorial.

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
8|Page

2. Case-Based Exam – in summary consists of 37 multiple-choice questions

related to a case study, scenario, or problem that requires the application of
candidate knowledge based on the entire Cathodic Protection (CP) body of
knowledge.
AMPP -Cathodic Protection Technologist
Exam Name
Case-Based Exam
Exam Code NACE-CP3-Case2
Time 4 hours3
Number of 32 exam questions that are scored
Questions 5 exam questions that are unscored4

Format Computer Based Testing- CBT

B. Exam Elements – Sample Exam Questions

This closed-book exam consists of multiple-choice questions. The questions are based on
the exam blueprint which reflects the knowledge and skills needed in the CP industry for a
Cathodic Protection Technologist.

See Appendix F of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for sample exam
questions.

C. Exam Elements – Use of Calculators

Candidates will have access to either a digital Tl-108 Standard and / or Tl-30XS Scientific
calculator for use during the Certification Exam. During the exam, you may have to switch
or select one of these calculators for use. Candidates will not be able to use their own
calculator for this exam.

See Appendix G of this exam preparation guide (EPG) for information on

the exam calculator used.

4
Unscored exam questions are being evaluated for future exams.

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
 9|Page

D. Exam Elements – Provided Exam Resources

Candidates will have access to the reference material needed during the exam. This
reference material could include such items as:
o industry standards (where indicated in Appendix B)
o equations (where indicated in Appendix C)
o conversion charts (where indicated in Appendix D)
o other where considered appropriate

Note: AMPP course manuals are not available as part of the resources
provided for this exam.

001CP3_0001_13_06_2024_Vera
 Appendix A
Exam Blueprint Information
related to
Knowledge and Skills
1|Page

Exam Blueprint (CP3)

1. Instruments (1% - 4% Theory and 6% - 13% Case) 1

A. Understand the operation of a digital volt-ohm meter (multimeter) and how it is used to
measure current, voltage, and resistance.
B. Use a volt-ohm meter (multimeter) to determine the voltage and current output of a
rectifier.
C. Understand the operation of a soil resistivity meter.
D. Use a volt-ohm meter to determine the current output of sacrificial anodes installed on
your system.
E. Conduct a soil resistivity test with a soil resistivity meter or equivalent instrument.
F. Conduct soil resistivity measurements by using a soil box.
G. Understand and be able to perform layer resistivity calculations.
H. Conduct single-point soil resistivity readings with a “Collins Rod”.
I. Install interrupters in rectifiers or bonds for the purpose of taking “on” and “instant-off
structure-to-electrolyte potential readings.
J. Understand the various types of pipe locating instruments and be able to utilize them to
locate pipelines or cables in all underground environments.

2. Shunts (1% - 3% Theory and 1% - 6% Case)

A. Understand how to determine the amount of current flowing through various size shunts
by reading the milli-Volt (mV) drop across it with a Volt-Ohm meter and applying the
correct conversion factor.
B. Understand how to determine the direction of current flow through a shunt by observing
the polarity of the mV reading.
C. Read shunts in rectifiers to determine the output current.
D. Read shunts in bonds with foreign structures.
E. Read shunts for individual anodes associated with deep well ground beds.
F. Utilize an external shunt to determine the output current of a rectifier with a broken amp
meter.
G. Read shunts that are installed in galvanic anodes to determine output current.

1
This value reflects the proportion of the exam covered (domain weight) by the section indicated.

003CP3_0003_13_06_2024_blueprint_VerA
2|Page

3. Field Tests (19% - 21% Theory and 22% to 28% Case)

A. Perform current requirement test.
B. Perform soil pH testing.
C. Perform IR-drop testing.
D. Conduct “shorted casing testing” on casings that are suspected of being shorted
and interpret the results of the test.
E. Perform coating examinations on sections of pipeline that have been excavated.
F. Perform soil resistivity test to evaluate the area for a conventional ground bed site.
G. Conduct Person, DC voltage gradient (DCVG) and AC voltage gradient (ACVG)
surveys to evaluate the coating condition of a section of pipeline.
H. Conduct computerized close interval surveys where needed and evaluate the
graphs produced from the data.
I. Locate breaks in header cables with an “audio type” pipe and cable locator.
J. Investigate shorts on a pipeline or other structure.
K. Verify the results of shorted casing test.
L. Understand the factors that affect cathodic protection system performance at the
anode, at the structure performance, in the electrolyte, in the metallic path, at the
power supply, because of anode arrangement and interference.
M. Perform advanced cathodic protection testing using correct measurement
techniques to monitor CP system performance and accurately interpret the data
collected to ensure optimum CP system performance.
N. Based on data collected, determine if correction/modifications to system
components are necessary.
O. Identify errors in data collection / CP measurements including contact resistance
errors, voltage drop errors, and reference electrode errors.
P. Utilize the instruments required to accomplish advanced cathodic protection testing
and collection of cathodic protection systems measurements.
Q. Conduct cathodic protection surveys including close interval surveys and DCVG
where needed or required and evaluate the graphs produced from the data
collected during the surveys.
R. Troubleshoot rectifiers and make corrections or repair as necessary.
S. Perform efficiency test on rectifiers.
T. Install and commission new rectifier installations.
U. Understand in-line and direct inspection (understand and be able to implement
ECDA).

003CP3_0003_13_06_2024_blueprint_VerA
3|Page

4. DC Stray Current Interference (9% - 11% Theory and 6% - 13% Case)

A. Conduct and document interference tests where stray currents are suspected.
B. Once interference tests have been run, suggest a method of control that will mitigate
the effects of the stray current.
C. Understand how IR-drop test stations can be used to evaluate stray current.
D. Understand how coupon test stations can be used to determine the presence of and
the mitigation of stray current.
E. Calculate the resistance required to provide the amount of current drain desired at
a resistance bond installation.
F. Understand the causes (sources) and the effects of interference.
G. Understand the methods available to mitigate interference.

5. AC Mitigation (6% - 9% Theory and 19% - 25% Case)

A. Understand the safety requirements when installing test stations under high voltage
power lines.
B. Take appropriate steps to mitigate the effects of excessive AC voltage induced on
underground structures.

6. Corrosion Theory (16% - 19% Theory and 1% - 6% Case)

A. Understand the composition of a basic galvanic cell and the electrochemical reactions
that allow corrosion to occur at the anode rather than the cathode.
B. Describe the characteristics of anodic and cathodic reactions.
C. Understand and apply the principles of electricity and electrical circuits (series, parallel,
and series-parallel circuits) (including the application of Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s Laws to
electrical circuits.)
D. Perform calculations using Ohm’s Law and calculations related to series and parallel
circuits.
E. Understand how corrosion cells are formed on metal objects that are underground or
otherwise immersed in an electrolyte.
F. Understand Faraday’s Law and perform calculations using Faraday’s Law to determine
required anode weight for cathodic protection.

003CP3_0003_13_06_2024_blueprint_VerA
4|Page

7. Polarization (9% - 11% Theory and 1% - 6% Case)

A. Understand the cause and effect of polarization in a galvanic cell.
B. Understand activation, concentration, and resistance polarization and the
mathematical expressions of these concepts.
C. Understand the factors that affect polarization (area, temperature, relative
movement, ion concentration, oxygen concentration).

8. Cathodic Protection (17% - 20% Theory and 13% - 19% Case)

A. Understand the concept of cathodic protection and be knowledgeable of the
components required for both galvanic and impressed current systems.
B. Be able to design and install simplistic forms of galvanic and impressed
current cathodic protection facilities.
C. Understand the relationship between cathodic protection and other methods
for the mitigation of corrosion.
D. Understand the factors that affect the amount of current required for a
cathodic protection system.
E. Understand the NACE criteria for cathodic protection and be able to apply the
criteria and adjust CP systems as necessary in order to comply with the
criteria defined by the company where the technologist is employed.
F. Understand IR drop and be able to determine the IR drop and apply
correction techniques as needed.
G. Understand and apply E-Log-I criteria and construct polarization curves.
H. Understand the concept of current distribution and be able to determine ideal
current distribution for CP system considering the factors affecting current
distribution (anode-to-cathode separation distance, electrolyte and structure
resistivity variation, and current attenuation).
I. Understand the effects of current path geometry, protective coatings, and
polarization on current distribution.

003CP3_0003_13_06_2024_blueprint_VerA
5|Page

9. Design (11% - 14% Theory and 6% - 13% Case)

A. Utilize field data to accomplish the calculations required to design cathodic protection
current sources.
B. Select site locations and implement the design of cathodic protection current sources for
distribution or transmission pipeline systems.
C. Design cathodic protection systems for the inside of water tanks.
D. Design cathodic protection systems for tank bottoms of above-grade storage tanks
(AST).
E. Design cathodic protection systems for underground storage tanks (UST).
F. Work with engineering in the proper use of electrical isolation for newly designed
facilities.
G. Provide information on underground coating performance for those selecting coatings for
new facilities.

003CP3_0003_13_06_2024_blueprint_VerA
 Appendix B
Exam Preparation Training and Study
Materials
1|Page

Suggested Preparation Training (CP3)

1. AMPP Cathodic Protection Technologist - Course CP 3

2. AMPP Cathodic Protection Technician - Course CP 2

3. AMPP Cathodic Protection Tester - Course CP 1

Suggested Preparation Training (CP3)

1. AMPP Cathodic Protection Technologist Exam Preparation Guide (EPG)

2. AMPP Cathodic Protection Technician Exam Preparation Guide (EPG)

3. AMPP Cathodic Protection Tester Exam Preparation Guide (EPG)

Suggested Cathodic Protection Specialist Study Material (CP3)

Books

1. Peabody, A. W. (2001). Peabody's control of pipeline corrosion (No. Ed. 2). Including:
• Derived from equations in “Calculation of Resistance to Ground,” by H.B. Dwight.
Electrical Engineering, (1936).
• Derived from equations in “Earth Conduction Effects in Transmission Systems,” by
Erling D., Sunde. D. Van Nostrand Co., Inc. (1949).
2. Corrosion Tests and Standards: Application and Interpretation–Second Edition. (2005).
Baboian, R. ASTM
3. Handbook of Cathodic Corrosion Protection–Third Edition. Von Baeckmann, W., Schwenk,
W., Prinz, W. (1997) Gulf Professional Publishing.
4. Atlas of Electrochemical Equilibria in Aqueous Solutions. Pourbaix, M. (1974). NACE.
5. NACE Corrosion Engineers Reference Handbook, Baboian, 3rd Edition (2002)
6. Pipeline Corrosion and Cathodic Protection, Parker, M.E. 3rd Edition (1999)
7. Deep Anode Systems: Design, Installation, and Operation, Lewis, T.H. (2000). NACE.

004CP3_0005_13_06_2024_prepref_VerA
2|Page

Standards 1
1. NACE SP 0169 (2013), “Control of External Corrosion on Underground of Submerged
Metallic Piping Systems.” NACE International.

2. NACE SP 0177 (2014), “Mitigation of Alternating Current and Lightning Effects on

Metallic Structures and Corrosion Control Systems.”

3. NACE SP 0285 (2011), “Corrosion Control of Underground Storage Tank Systems by

Cathodic Protection”

4. NACE SP 0193 (2016), “External Cathodic Protection of On-Grade Carbon Steel Storage
Tank Bottoms”

5. NACE SP 0176 (2022), “Corrosion Control of Submerged Areas of Permanently Installed

Steel Offshore Structures Associated with Petroleum Production”

6. NACE SP 0204 (2015), “Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) Direct Assessment

Methodology”

7. NACE SP 21424 (2018), “Alternating Current Corrosion on Cathodically Protected

Pipelines: Risk Assessment, Mitigation, and Monitoring.”
8. NACE SP 0200 (2014), “Steel-Cased Pipeline Practices."

9. NACE SP 0575 (2007), “Internal Cathodic Protection (CP) Systems in Oil-Treating

Vessels.”

10. NACE TM 0102 (2002). “Measurement of Protective Coating Conductance on

Underground Pipelines.”

Other Resources

1. NACE SP 0207 (2007), “Performing Close Interval Potential Surveys and DC Surface
Potential Gradient Surveys on Buried or Submerged Metallic Pipelines.”
2. NACE SP 0497 (2012), “Measurement Techniques related to Criteria for Cathodic
Protection on Underground or Submerged Metallic Piping Systems”
3. NACE SP 0102 (2002), “Measurement of Protective Coating Electrical Conductance
on Underground Pipelines.”
4. NACE SP 0290 (2007), “Impressed Current Cathodic Protection of Reinforcing Steel in
Atmospherically Exposed Concrete Structures.”
5. NACE SP 0196 (2015), “Galvanic Anode Cathodic Protection of Internal Submerged
Surfaces of Steel Water Storage Tanks.”

1
Where appropriate, candidates may have access to all or part of this reference material as part of the exam.

004CP3_0005_13_06_2024_prepref_VerA
3|Page

6. NACE SP 0575 (2007), “Internal Cathodic Protection (CP) Systems in Oil-treating

Vessels.”
7. NACE SP 0286 (2007), “Electrical Isolation of Cathodically Protected Pipelines.”
8. NACE TM 0115 (2015), “Cathodic Disbondment Test for Coated Steel Structures
Under Cathodic Protection.”
9. NACE SP 0104 (2014), “The Use of Coupons for Cathodic Protection Monitoring
Applications.”
10. NACE SP 0408 (2014), “Cathodic Protection of Reinforcing Steel in Buried or
Submerged Concrete Structures.”
11. NACE SP 0100 (2014), “Cathodic Protection to Control External Corrosion of Concrete
Pressure Pipelines and Mortar-coated Steel Pipelines for Water or Wastewater
Service.”
12. NACE SP 0294 (2016), “Testing of Embeddable Impressed Current Anodes for Use in
Cathodic Protection of Atmospherically Exposed Steel-reinforced Concrete.”
13. NACE SP 0572 (2007), “Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance of
Impressed Current Deep Anode Beds.”
14. NACE TM 0105 (2016), “Evaluation of Coatings Containing Conductive Carbon
Pigmentation for use as an Anode on Atmospherically Exposed Reinforced Concrete.”
15. NACE RP 0375 (2006), “Field-Applied Underground Wax Coating Systems for
Underground Pipelines, Application, Performance, and Quality Control.”
16. NACE TM 21423 (2017), “Test Method for Determination of Substrate and Surface
Temperature Limits for Insulative Coatings used for Personnel Protection.”
17. NACE MR 0174 (2007), “Selecting Inhibitors for Use as Sucker-rod Thread
Lubricants.”
18. NACE TM 0404 (2004), “Offshore Platform Atmospheric and Splash Zone New
Construction Coating System Evaluation.”
19. NACE TM 0304 (2004), “Offshore Platform Atmospheric and Splash Zone
Maintenance Coating System Evaluation.”
20. NACE SP 0107 (2017), “Electrochemical Realkalization and Chloride Extraction for
Reinforced Concrete.”
21. NACE SP 0187 (2017), “Design Considerations for Corrosion Control of Reinforcing
Steel in Concrete.”
22. NACE SP 0487 (2007), “Consideration in the Selection and Evaluation of Rust
Preventives and Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors for Interim (temporary) Corrosion
Protection.“
23. NACE No. 12/AWS C2.23M/SSPC CS 23, “Specification for the Application of Thermal
Spray Coatings (Metallizing) of Aluminum, Zinc, and their Allows and Composites for
the Corrosion Protection of Steel.”
24. NACE TM 0183 (2018), “Evaluation of Internal Plastic Coatings for Corrosion Control
of Tubular Goods in an Aqueous Flowing Environment.”
25. NACE TM 0113 (2013), “Evaluating the accuracy of Field-grade Reference
Electrodes.”

004CP3_0005_13_06_2024_prepref_VerA
4|Page

26. American National Standard for Use of the International System of Units (SI): The
Modern Metric System ASTM SI 10. (2002). ASTM
27. ASTM G97-97 (2013), “Standard Test Method for Laboratory Evaluation of Magnesium
Sacrificial Anode Test Specimens for Underground Applications.”
28. ASTM B418 16-a, “Standard Specification for Cast and Wrought Galvanic Zinc
Anodes.”
29. DIN 30676 (1985-10), “Design and Application of Cathodic Protection of External
Surfaces.”
30. CSN EN 12954, “Cathodic Protection of Buried or Immersed Metallic Structures –
General Principles and Application for Pipelines.”
31. ISO 15589-1 (2015), “Petroleum, Petrochemical and Natural Gas Industries – Cathodic
Protection of Pipeline Systems – Part 1: On-land Pipelines.”
32. ISO 18086 (2015), “Corrosion of Metals and Alloys – Determination of AC Corrosion-
Protection Criteria.”
33. “A Comparison of Anodes for Impressed Current Systems,” Jakobs, J.A., NACE
Canadian Region, Western Conference.(1980)
34. “Soil Investigation Employing a New Method of Layer-Value Determination for Earth
Resistivity Interpretation,” Barnes, H.E. (1952). Michigan State Highway Department.
35. “Improved Pipe-to-Soil Potential Survey Methods, PRCI Final Report,” PR-186-807.
Thompson, N.G., Lawson, K.M. (1991)

004CP3_0005_13_06_2024_prepref_VerA
 Appendix C
Equation Preparation and Study
Materials
1|Page

Calculation Resource RESISTANCE TO EARTH OF MULTIPLE VERTICAL ANODES

NOTE: All CP3 references, including equations, were taken from 0.00521ρ 8𝐿𝐿 2𝐿𝐿
𝑅𝑅𝑣𝑣 = � � �ln � 𝑑𝑑 � − 1 + � 𝑆𝑆 � ln(0.66𝑁𝑁)�
original sources and may differ from those used in course 𝑁𝑁𝑁𝑁
manuals and presentations
Where:
RESISTANCE TO EARTH OF SINGLE VERTICAL ANODE Rv = resistance (Ω)
ρ = resistivity (Ω-cm)
0.00521ρ 8𝐿𝐿
𝑅𝑅𝑣𝑣 = � � �ln � 𝑑𝑑 � − 1� L = anode length (ft)
𝐿𝐿
N = number of anodes
Where: S = anode spacing center-to-center (ft)
Rv = resistance (Ω) d = anode diameter (ft)
ρ = resistivity (Ω-cm)
L = anode length (ft) OR
d = anode diameter (ft)
ρ 8𝐿𝐿 2𝐿𝐿
𝑅𝑅𝑣𝑣 = �2𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋� �ln � 𝑑𝑑 � − 1 + � 𝑆𝑆 � ln(0.66𝑁𝑁)�
OR
Where:
ρ 8𝐿𝐿
𝑅𝑅𝑣𝑣 = �2𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋� �ln � 𝑑𝑑 � − 1� Rv = resistance (Ω)
ρ = resistivity (Ω-m)
Where: L = anode length (m)
Rv = resistance (Ω) N = number of anodes
ρ = resistivity (Ω-m) S = anode spacing center-to-center (m)
L = anode length (m) d = anode diameter (m)
d = anode diameter (m)
NOTE: Use the units specified.

005cp3_0007_25nov24_equatref_vera
2|Page

RESISTANCE TO EARTH OF SINGLE HORIZONTAL ANODE RESISTANCE TO EARTH OF MULTIPLE HORIZONTAL ANODES
𝑅𝑅𝐻𝐻
0.00521ρ 4𝐿𝐿2 +4𝐿𝐿√𝑆𝑆 2 +𝐿𝐿2 𝑆𝑆 √𝑆𝑆 2 +𝐿𝐿2 𝑅𝑅𝑇𝑇 = 𝐹𝐹
𝑅𝑅𝐻𝐻 = � � �ln � � + 𝐿𝐿 − − 1� 𝑁𝑁
𝐿𝐿 𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑 𝐿𝐿
Where:
RT = resistance of multiple horizontal anodes (Ω)
Where:
F = Anode Interference or Crowding Factor
RH = resistance (Ω)
RH = resistance of single horizontal anode (Ω)
ρ = resistivity (Ω-cm)
N = number of anodes
L = anode length (ft)
S = twice the anode depth (ft)
d = anode diameter (ft)
ANODE INTERFERENCE BETWEEN ANODES (Crowding Factor)
𝜌𝜌
OR 𝐹𝐹 = 1 + ln[0.66𝑁𝑁]
𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋𝑅𝑅𝐻𝐻
Where:
ρ 4𝐿𝐿2 +4𝐿𝐿√𝑆𝑆 2 +𝐿𝐿2 𝑆𝑆 √𝑆𝑆 2 +𝐿𝐿2
𝑅𝑅𝐻𝐻 = �2𝜋𝜋𝜋𝜋� �ln � � + 𝐿𝐿 − − 1� F = Anode Interference or Crowding Factor
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑 𝐿𝐿
ρ = resistivity in (Ω-m)
Where: RH = resistance of single horizontal anode (Ω)
N = number of anodes
RH = resistance (Ω)
S = distance between anodes (m)
ρ = resistivity (Ω-m)
L = anode length (m)
S = twice the anode depth (m) KIRCHHOFF’S LAW
d = anode diameter (m) Rm
Vm = E
R 𝑡𝑡 𝑡𝑡
Where:
Vm = voltage drop across the voltmeter
Rm = voltmeter input resistance
Rt = total resistance
Et = true potential

005CP3_0007_25Nov24_equatref_VerA
3|Page

PIPE OR CABLE RESISTANCE FROM RESISTIVITY WENNER SOIL RESISTIVITY

(Pouillet’s Law)
ρ = 2𝜋𝜋 𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴
𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌 Where:
𝑅𝑅 = 𝐴𝐴 ρ = soil resistivity in (Ω)
𝐴𝐴 = distance between probes in cm
Where:
𝑅𝑅 = soil resistance (Ω) {instrument reading}
𝑅𝑅 = resistance (Ω)
ρ = resistivity in ohm-cm OR
𝐴𝐴 = cross-sectional area in cm2
𝐿𝐿 = length in cm ρ = 191.5 𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴
Where:
ρ = soil resistivity in ohm-cm
LENGTH OF BARE STRUCTURE RECEIVING PROTECTION
𝐴𝐴 = distance between probes in feet
𝑅𝑅 = soil resistance (Ω) {instrument reading}
𝐿𝐿 = 2𝑑𝑑 𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡 60°

Where:
𝑑𝑑 = perpendicular distance between anode and COATING CONDUCTANCE TESTING
structure
𝐿𝐿 = length of structure receiving protection Applicable Formulas:
• Applied Test Current = IT
• Voltage Shift resulting from Applied Test Current ∆V1 and ∆V2
∆𝑉𝑉
• Resistance-to-earth of Pipe, 𝑅𝑅𝑝𝑝 = ∆𝐼𝐼𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴
TEMPERATURE CONVERSION 𝑇𝑇
• Pipe Coating Resistance, RC = Rp * A, where A = ᴫdl
5 1
°C = 9 (°F − 32°) • Pipe Coating Conductance, 𝑆𝑆 =
𝑅𝑅𝑐𝑐

9
°F = 5 (°C + 32°)

005CP3_0007_25Nov24_equatref_VerA
 4|Page

TRUE POTENTIAL- Input Impedance Measurement Correction CALCULATING PIPE RESISTANCE TO REMOTE EARTH
𝑉𝑉ℎ (1 − 𝐾𝐾)
𝐸𝐸𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡 = �𝑉𝑉𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 − 𝑉𝑉𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 �
𝑉𝑉 𝑅𝑅𝑝𝑝,𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 =
1 − � 𝐾𝐾 � 𝑉𝑉ℎ � � 𝐼𝐼𝑡𝑡
𝑙𝑙
Where: Where:
𝐸𝐸𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡 = true potential (V) • Rp,re = resistance at remote earth in ohms
𝐾𝐾 = input resistance ratio 𝑅𝑅𝑙𝑙 /𝑅𝑅ℎ • Von = VDC with test current “on”
𝑅𝑅𝑙𝑙 = lowest input resistance (Ω) • Voff = VDC with test current “off”
𝑅𝑅ℎ = highest input resistance (Ω) • It = test current
𝑉𝑉𝑙𝑙 = voltage measured with lowest input resistance (V)
𝑉𝑉ℎ = voltage measured with highest input resistance (V) 𝑟𝑟𝑐𝑐′
𝑅𝑅𝑝𝑝,𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 =
𝑉𝑉𝑚𝑚 𝑅𝑅𝑚𝑚
𝐼𝐼𝑡𝑡
=
𝐸𝐸𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡 𝑅𝑅𝑡𝑡
Where:
Where:
Vm = Voltage of the meter • Rp,re = resistance at remote earth in ohms
Etrue = True potential difference • 𝑟𝑟𝑐𝑐′ = specific coating resistance
Rm = Meter resistance • It = test current
Rt = Reference electrode resistance to earth

CALCULATING RESISTANCE OF THE CIRCUIT REFERENCE ELECTRODE TEMPERATURE CONVERSION

𝐸𝐸 = 𝐸𝐸°25°𝐶𝐶𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 + 𝑘𝑘𝑡𝑡 (𝑇𝑇 − 25°𝐶𝐶)

𝑅𝑅𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 = 𝑅𝑅𝑡𝑡 − 𝑅𝑅𝑚𝑚
Where:
Where: Kt = temperature coefficient in
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
Rcirc = Resistance in the measuring circuit, excluding the meter °𝐶𝐶

resistance Et = reference potential at temperature T in °CSHE

𝐸𝐸°25°𝐶𝐶𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 = reference potential at 25°C

005CP3_0007_25Nov24_equatref_VerA
5|Page

ATTENUATION CALCULATION OF TOTAL CIRCUIT RESISTANCE

𝑅𝑅𝑚𝑚 ∗ 𝐸𝐸𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡
𝑅𝑅𝑡𝑡 =
𝛼𝛼 = �𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 𝑉𝑉𝑚𝑚
Where:
Where: Rt = Total Circuit resistance
α = attenuation constant Rm = Input resistance of meter
r = longitudinal resistance of structure (Ω) Etrue = True Potential (V)
g = conductance to earth in S Vm = Potential Measured (Vh)

𝑟𝑟 ′ = 𝑅𝑅𝐿𝐿 𝐴𝐴𝑆𝑆 DETERMINE SPECIFIC COATING RESISTANCE

Where:
r’ = specific leakage resistance (Ω-m2 (Ω-ft2))
1000
R L = average total leakage resistance (Ω) 𝑅𝑅𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠@1000Ω−cm = 𝑅𝑅𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 ∗
AS = total surface area (m2 (ft2)) 𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌
Where:
𝑅𝑅𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠@1000Ω−cm = specific coating resistance
𝑟𝑟 𝑅𝑅𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 = measured resistance
𝑅𝑅𝐺𝐺 = �
𝑔𝑔 𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌𝜌 = soil resistivity
Where:
𝑅𝑅𝐺𝐺 = characteristic resistance 1
r = longitudinal resistance (Ω) of structure 𝑔𝑔𝑐𝑐′ =
g = conductance to earth in S 𝑟𝑟𝑐𝑐′
RSS = resistance (Ω) looking into open line
𝑔𝑔𝑐𝑐′ = Specific coating conductance
𝑟𝑟𝑐𝑐′ = Specific coating resistance

005CP3_0007_25Nov24_equatref_VerA
6|Page

AC CURRENT DENSITY
8VAC NERNST EQUATIONS
iAC =
ρ𝜋𝜋d 𝑛𝑛+
Where: 𝑜𝑜 𝑅𝑅𝑅𝑅 𝛼𝛼 𝑀𝑀
𝐸𝐸𝑀𝑀 = 𝐸𝐸𝑀𝑀 + ln
IAC = AC current density (A / m²) 𝑛𝑛𝑛𝑛 𝛼𝛼 𝑀𝑀𝑜𝑜
VAC = AC volts (V)
ρ = soil resistivity (Ω-m) Where:
d = holiday diameter (m) 𝐸𝐸𝑀𝑀 = metal potential
𝐸𝐸𝑀𝑀 𝑜𝑜 = metal potential at standard conditions
R = universal gas constant (8.31J * mol-1 *°K-1)
POWER ARC DISTANCE
𝑇𝑇 = absolute temperature (°K)
When: n = number of electrons transferred
p ≤ 1000 Ω-m 𝐹𝐹 = Faraday’s Constant (96,500 coulombs)
𝑛𝑛+
𝑟𝑟 = �0.08 ∗ �𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼 ∗ 𝑝𝑝 � 𝛼𝛼 𝑀𝑀 = metal ion activity (α=ɏm, where ɏ is the activity
OR
coefficient (always <1) and m is the molar
concentration of the metal ion)
When: 𝑀𝑀𝑜𝑜
𝛼𝛼 = metal activity (assumed to be 1)
p > 1000 Ω-m
𝑟𝑟 = �0.047 ∗ �𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼 ∗ 𝑝𝑝 �

Where:
r = power arc distance (m)
If = fault magnitude (kA)
p = soil resistivity (Ω-m)

005CP3_0007_25Nov24_equatref_VerA
7|Page

BARNES LAYER Where:

pL1 = Resistivity of layer 1 (Ω-m)
𝑝𝑝𝐿𝐿1=2∗𝜋𝜋∗𝐿𝐿1 ∗ 𝑅𝑅𝑙𝑙1 (Resistivity of Layer 1)
RL2 = Resistance of layer 2 (Ω)
R1 = Resistance measured to depth L1 (Ω)
𝑅𝑅𝐿𝐿2= 𝑅𝑅1 𝑅𝑅2 (Resistance of Layer 2) R2 = Resistance measured to depth L2 (Ω)
(𝑅𝑅1 − 𝑅𝑅2 ) pL2 = Resistivity of the layer 2 (Ω-m)

𝑝𝑝𝐿𝐿2=2∗𝜋𝜋∗𝐿𝐿2 ∗ 𝑅𝑅𝐿𝐿2 (Resistivity of Layer 2) RL3 = Resistance of layer 3 (Ω)

R2 = Resistance measured to depth L1 (Ω)
R3 = Resistance measured to depth L2 (Ω)
𝑅𝑅𝐿𝐿3= 𝑅𝑅2 𝑅𝑅3 (Resistance of Layer 3) pL3 = resistivity of layer 3 (Ω)
(𝑅𝑅2 − 𝑅𝑅3 )

𝑝𝑝𝐿𝐿3=2∗𝜋𝜋∗𝐿𝐿3 ∗ 𝑅𝑅𝐿𝐿3 (Resistivity of Layer 3)

RL4…………., etc.
pL4…………, etc.

005CP3_0007_25Nov24_equatref_VerA
 Appendix D
Table / Scale Preparation and Study
Materials
1|Page

Table / Scale References 1 CONVERSIONS

EMF electromotive force – any voltage unit
NOTE: All references, including equations, were taken from E or e any voltage unit
original sources and may differ from those used in course V volts
manuals and presentations mV millivolts
µV microvolts
I any amperage unit
mA milliamperes or milliamps
METRIC PREFIXES µA microampere or microamps
R or Ω Resistance
Prefix Symbol Factor Power
1,000,000 volts = 1 megavolt
tera T 1 000 000 000 000 1012 1,000 volts = 1 kilovolt
giga G 1 000 000 000 109
1.0 volt = 1000 millivolts
mega M 1 000 000 106
0.100 volt = 100 millivolts
kilo k 1 000 103
0.010 volt = 10 millivolts
hecto h 100 102
0.001 volt = 1 millivolt
deca da 10 101
0.000001 volt = 1 microvolt
(none) (none) 1 100
deci d 0.1 10−1 1,000,000 amperes = 1 mega-ampere
centi c 0.01 10−2 1,000 amperes = 1 kiloampere0 ampere
milli m 0.001 10−3 = 1000 milliamperes
micro μ 0.000 001 10−6 0.100 ampere = 100 milliamperes
nano n 0.000 000 001 10−9 0.010 ampere = 10 milliamperes
pico p 0.000 000 000 001 10−12 0.001 ampere = 1 milliampere
0.000001 ampere = 1 microampere

1,000,000 ohms = 1 mega-ohm

1,000 ohms = 1 kilo-ohm
1.0 ohms = 1000 milliohms
0.100 ohm = 100 milliohms
0.010 ohm = 10 milliohms
0.001 ohm = 1 milliohm
0.000001 ohm = 1 micro-ohm

1 meter = 100 cm
1 meter = 1000 mm
1 inch = 2.54 cm
1 foot = 30.48 c

1
Candidate will have access to this necessary reference material as part of the exam.

006CP3_0007b_13_06_2024_eqtableref_VerA
Page |2

006CP3_0007b_13_06_2024_eqtableref_VerA
Page |3

Common Reference Electrodes and Their Potentials at Temperature Coefficients

Potential Temperature
Electrolyte
Reference Electrode @ 25°C Co-efficient
Solution
(V/SHE) (mV/°C)

Cu / CuSO4 (CSE) Sat. CuSO4 +0.316 0.9

Ag / AgCl (SJ) (SSC) 0.6M NaCl (3½%) +0.256 −0.33

Ag / AgCl (LJ) (SSC) Sat. KCl +0.222 −0.70

Ag / AgCl (LJ) (SSC) 0.1N KCl +0.288 −0.43

Sat. Calomel (SCE) Sat KCl +0.244 −0.70

Zn (ZRE) Saline Solution −0.79 ---

Zn (ZRE) Soil −0.80 ---

SJ – solid junction LJ – liquid junction

006CP3_0007b_13_06_2024_eqtableref_VerA
Page |4

Typical Consumption Rate and Capacities of Different Anode Materials in Soils or Fresh Waters

Note: Platinum-clad and mixed metal oxide coated anodes are quantified by thickness of the surface film rather than by weight.

Efficiency of galvanic anodes is dependent on the anode current density.

(1)

006CP3_0007b_13_06_2024_eqtableref_VerA
Page |5

Typical Potential-pH (Pourbaix) Diagram Iron in Water at 25°C

006CP3_0007b_13_06_2024_eqtableref_VerA
Page |6

Reference Electrode Conversion Scale

006CP3_0007b_13_06_2024_eqtableref_VerA
 Appendix E
Certification Requirements
1|Page

Certification Requirements

Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP3) certification requirements are as follows:

1. Meet work experience and education requirements:

Cathodic Protection Technologist (CP3) Certification

 Option one

• Bachelor’s degree in either physical science or engineering; and,

• 3-years of verifiable work experience in cathodic protection

OR
 Option two

• 2-years post high school training from approved math / science or technical /
trade school; and,

• 6-years of verifiable work experience in cathodic protection

OR
 Option three

• 8-years of verifiable work experience in cathodic protection

2. Meet prerequisite requirements:

 Prerequisite Successful completion of the

Ethics for the Corrosion
Professional Course or an
accepted training equivalent.

 Prerequisite None

007CP3_0002_13_06_2024_certreq_VerA
2|Page

3. Take and successfully complete required exam(s):

 Certification Exam Cathodic Protection

Technologist Theory Exam

 Certification Exam Cathodic Protection

Technologist Case-Based
Exam

4. Complete and Apply for the Certification:

 Submit an Application Candidates must apply for this

certification by submitting an
on-line application.

• The application is subject to review and approval.

o Upon successful completion of all requirements, AMPP credentialing

and certification will grant the candidate industry recognition as an
AMPP certified - Cathodic Protection Technologist.

o Applications to AMPP credentialing and certification must be

within 3-years of the successful completion of any certification exam

o Successful completion of the certification exam(s) by itself does not

grant the candidate any use of the certification title.

o Completion of Cathodic Protection Technologist Course by itself does

not grant the candidate any use of the certification title.

5. Accept Terms and Conditions:

 Accept Terms and Conditions Candidates must agree to the

Terms and Conditions

6. Pay Application Fee where applicable:

 Pay Application Fee Candidates must pay the

application fee where
applicable

007CP3_0002_13_06_2024_certreq_VerA
3|Page

Candidates have a four (4) year certification window in which to complete the
certification level 1

The window starts when any single initial requirement event occurs:

 Exam completion – any CBT exam completion whether pass or fail.

 Application – Completion of an application in the Candidate’s

certification portal

 Must be submitted and approved with three (3) years of the start
of the four (4) year window.

 Application must be updated and resubmitted after the third year

if still in the certification window.

Candidate exam completion restrictions:

Theory and case exam slots are offered on 6-month intervals

 Candidate’s initial attempt to pass

 A 6-month wait interval per attempt

 Within the 4-year window

 Maximum total of eight (8) exam testing attempts for theory

 Maximum total of eight (8) exam testing attempts for case

1 If
the 4-year window is exceeded, any successfully passed exams must be retaken by the candidate as part of a
new 4-year window.

007CP3_0002_13_06_2024_certreq_VerA
 Appendix F
Sample Exam Questions
1|Page

Practice Exam Questions

Description of Questions
This closed-book exam consists of multiple-choice questions. The questions are based on the exam blueprint knowledge and skills
needed in the CP industry for a Cathodic Protection Technologist.

Practice Theory Questions

The following provides sample questions to illustrate the type of content that will be on the exam. You should not consider your
performance on the sample questions as a predictor of your performance on the actual exam. The sample questions are for
illustrative purposes only.

Theory Type Questions

1. If the potential of -700 mVDCCSE is measured with the reference at 25°C, what is the measured potential if the reference is at
40°C?

A. -686 mVDCCSE
B. -700 mVDCCSE
C. -714 mVDCCSE
D. -868 mVDCCSE

2. Which of the following conditions will increase galvanic anode polarization?

A. Increased agitation
B. Decreased Mn+ ions
C. Decreased temperature
D. Increased surface area

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
2|Page

3. How long has this rectifier been OFF during this 30-day period given the following data?

Location Operating Data

DC Output 15 VDC and 10 ADC
KWH Meter 4 revolutions per minute where K=1
AC Power Consumption For the 30-day period is 120 KWH

A. 0 days
B. 9 days
C. 12 days
D. 21 days

4. Which of the following discharge current densities would result in the largest corrosion rate according to Faraday’s Law?

A. 10 mA/ft2 from a steel plate

B. 6 µA/cm2 from a lead plate
C. 100 mA/m2 from a zinc anode
D. 10 µA/cm2 from an aluminum anode

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
3|Page

Practice Case-Based Questions

The following provides sample questions to illustrate the type of content that will be on the exam. You should not consider your
performance on the sample questions as a predictor of your performance on the actual exam. These sample question examples
are for illustrative purposes only.

Case-Based Statement
A horizontal directionally drilled (HDD) pipeline is to be installed under a river. The coating quality and cathodic protection (CP)
current requirement will need to be assessed prior to the pipeline being welded to (connected to) the upstream and downstream
pipeline segments which are already in place. The design information for the HDD pipeline follows:

• 24-inch (609.6-mm) outside diameter

• 4,500 linear feet in length (HDD bore) (0.85-miles or 1.237-km)
• Mill applied - 16-mil of fusion bonded epoxy coating (FBE) with an abrasion resistance overcoat (ARO) of 60-
mils
• The girth welds are field coated with a 70-mil thick liquid epoxy coating
• Cathodic protection is to be provided by a local system dedicated to the HDD installed pipeline segment

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
4|Page

The design basis for this HDD segment of pipeline includes an accepted Coating Quality Acceptance Table that includes the
following information:

Effective Coating Resistance Estimate of Coating Quality Bare Area (%) Coating Efficiency (%)
(ohm-ft2)
Bare - 100 0
10,000 Poor 3 97
25,000 Fair 1.2 98.8
50,000 Fair 0.6 99.4
100,000 Good 0.3 99.7
500,000 Excellent 0.06 99.94

The approved testing method for this HDD pipeline segment makes use of the following test arrangement:

Temporary
Groundbed
Rectifier

Interrupter

∆I 1 ∆V 1 ∆V 2
mA V vV

Section Length L

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
5|Page

Applicable field data results can be found in the table below:

Applied test current for this data is: 0.050 ADC

Pipe-to-Electroyte Potentials V1 V2
Native (static) -0.700 VDCCSE -0.630 VDCCSE
Current Applied “ON” -1.400 VDCCSE -1.300 VDCCSE
Current Interrupted “Instant-off” -0.850 VDCCSE -0.780 VDCCSE

1. What assessment technique is being used to understand the protective coating quality of this HDD
pipeline?
A. Close-interval potential survey
B. Pipe-to-electrolyte potential measurement
C. Coating conductance measurement
D. Coating attenuation survey

2. For the data provided, what is the calculated Pipe-to-earth Resistance Rp?
A. 3.0 Ω
B. 10.7 Ω
C. 13.7 Ω
D. 16.3 Ω

3. For the data provided, what is the calculated Pipe Coating Resistance Rc?
A. 52,298 Ω-ft2 (56,931 Ω-m2)
B. 250,364 Ω-ft2 (1,269,4896 Ω-m2)
C. 302,535 Ω-ft2 (3,257,536 Ω-m2)
D. 650,000 Ω-ft2 (6,996,542 Ω-m2)

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
6|Page

4. For the data provided, what is the calculated Pipe Coating Conductance S?
A. 1.305 µS
B. 2.000 µS
C. 2.300 µS
D. 3.304 µS

5. Using the data provided, what is the total current required to achieve a minimum polarized pipe potential of
-0.900 VDCCSE?
A. 50.00 mADC
B. 90.00 mADC
C. 100.00 mADC
D. 1500.00 mADC

6. Using the data provided, rate the quality of the coating found to exist on the HDD after testing?
A. Poor
B. Fair
C. Good
D. Excellent

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
7|Page

Answer Key - Sample Theory Questions

1. C
2. C
3. B
4. B

Answer Key - Sample Case-Based Questions

1. C
2. B
3. C
4. D
5. B
6. C

008CP3_0004_13_06_2024_examplequest_VerA
 Appendix G
Exam Calculator
1|Page

Exam Calculator

Candidates will have access to either a digital Tl-108 Standard and / or Tl-30XS Scientific
calculator for use during the Certification Exam. During the exam, you may have to switch
or select one of these calculators for use. Candidates will not be able to use their own
calculator for this exam.

Prior to attending your exam session:

 It is highly recommended that you review how this calculator operates and how you
will use it. Other suggestions:

o You may be able to find this calculator (TI-30XS) in the Google Store for
Android phones to practice on.
 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=calc991.calculator.scientif
ic.xs30.t34.free&pcampaignid=web_share

 A similar version may be available for Apple IOS

o You may wish to purchase a TI-30XS (approximate cost $ 20.00 US dollars)

 The candidate can use the exam calculator for trigonometric hyperbolic functions like:

𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 − 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥
• sinh 𝑥𝑥 =
2

Key stroke example for sinh 𝑥𝑥 is 2nd, hyperbolic (hyp), sin, enter number, ), enter.

𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥
• cosh 𝑥𝑥 =
2

sinh 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 − 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥
• tanh 𝑥𝑥 = =
cosh 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥

cosh 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥
• coth 𝑥𝑥 = =
sinh 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 − 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥

1 2
• sech 𝑥𝑥 = =
cosh 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 + 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥

1 2
• csch 𝑥𝑥 = =
sinh 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑥𝑥 − 𝑒𝑒 −𝑥𝑥

009CP3_0009_13_06_2024_calc_VerA
2|Page

009CP3_0009_13_06_2024_calc_VerA
3|Page

Toggle
The scientific calculator might show the results of certain calculations as a fraction –
involving pi or a square root. To convert this kind of result to a single number with a decimal
point, you will need to use the “toggle answer” button circled in the picture below. Pressing
this button will change the display from a fractional to a decimal format.

Note: This following option may or may not be available based on testing center.

o If you find this onscreen calculator difficult to use, raise your hand and ask
the Test Administrator to provide you with a hand-held calculator. The Test
Administrator may be able to provide you with either the scientific or non-
scientific calculator model as referenced above.

As a reminder, candidates will not be able to use their own calculator for this exam.

009CP3_0009_13_06_2024_calc_VerA