Cathodic Protection Tester Practice Exam

Which of the following choices is NOT a cause of stray currents?

1. Improper grounding

2. Connection to an electrical grid

3. Unprotected pipelines

4. Manufactured components

The correct answer is: Manufactured components

Stray currents typically refer to unwanted electrical currents finding alternative paths through the earth or other conductive materials. The presence of stray currents can cause significant interference and damage to various structures, particularly in the context of cathodic protection systems. Manufactured components, on their own, do not generate stray currents unless they are part of a system that creates an electrical potential difference, such as improper grounding or a connection to an electrical grid. While certain components can be influenced by stray currents, they themselves are not a source. The materials and assembled elements are usually designed to function correctly in specific conditions without generating stray currents. In contrast, improper grounding can create pathways for stray currents to develop. Connections to electrical grids can introduce stray currents through the shared return paths of electrical systems, and unprotected pipelines can receive stray currents from nearby sources or ground potentials. Thus, manufactured components do not inherently contribute to the phenomenon of stray currents, which is why this option stands out as not being a cause.