GIS Corrosion Mapping for Electrical T&D Structures

The life expectancy of electrical transmission and distribution (T&D) structures depends largely on the material selected and its suitability to the environment to which the structures are exposed. The selection of galvanized and weathering steels for above- and below-grade applications is a matter of corrosion engineering judgment and based on the corrosivity of the service environment, economics, appearance, and aesthetics. The best way to select the right material for T&D applications is to develop a geographical information system corrosion map for the service territory that addresses both atmospheric and underground corrosion risks.