NACE International Institute – Cathodic Protection Specialist Program

National Association of Corrosion Engineers
Image: nace.org

Based in Danville, California, David Aimal Kashifi has served as a senior corrosion engineer for Corrosion Protection Solutions for more than a decade. David Aimal Kashifi holds certification as a cathodic protection specialist through NACE International, the leading corrosion authority.

The National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) International offers certification programs to promote corrosion control efforts that protect the environment, facilitate public safety, and decrease the financial impact of corrosion. NACE certifications are the most widely accepted corrosion control qualifications worldwide.

In the NACE cathodic protection program, there are certifications available for professionals with different areas of professional focus, such as wastewater systems and oil and gas exploration. The cathodic protection specialist certification program is designed for those with significant experience in cathodic protection who are involved in creating, installing, and preserving cathodic protection systems.

The NACE program examines the theoretical concepts behind cathodic protection systems, which protect metallic structures from corrosion. During the program, participants also cover the components that impact calculations and design. Professionals must renew their certifications every three years.

Corrosion-Related Issue in the San Francisco Bay Bridge Tunnel

Corrosion Protection Solutions
Image: corrosioncp.com

A senior corrosion engineer with Corrosion Protection Solutions in Northern California, David Aimal Kashifi designs and tests systems of cathodic protection and corrosion control. David Aimal Kashifi has extensive experience in designing systems that extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure across the country.

Corrosion is a major public safety issue affecting metal infrastructure such as steel-reinforced concrete, bridges, and pipelines. One recent corrosion-related issue in the San Francisco Bay Area involves the Bay Bridge tunnel, which passes through Yerba Buena Island. In January, 2016, a car passing through the 80-year old structure was hit by a chunk of falling concrete.

A subsequent survey of the tunnel revealed a dozen areas where concrete is separating from the tunnel wall. The culprit is corrosion, related to water that leaks from the upper deck through approximately 250 drain openings into the tunnel. In the short term, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission has advised drivers to exercise caution as they drive through the tunnel. In the longer term, it is critical to address these major corrosion and structural design issues.