Source: Krefografie/Dreamstime.com
There are various time-proven methods for preventing and controlling corrosion. One of these
is cathodic protection (CP). Here well take a look at cathodic protection, its types, and how it's used
to protect buried pipelines against corrosion.
Sacrificial anodes are made from active metals such as zinc, aluminum, or
magnesium, which are considered the most active metals according to thegalvanic
series.
CP current is created by the potential difference between sacrificial anodes and the
protected structure.
The type of anode used depends on electrolyte resistivity and the chemical
compositions of the electrolyte to which the substrate is exposed.
Three types of anodes are used: Soluble anodes (aluminum and steel), semi-soluble
anodes (graphite and high silicon cast iron (HSCI)), and non-soluble anodes
(platinum, mixed metal oxide, and polymer)
The main component of this type of CP is the TR, which forces the current to flow
from the anodes to the protected structure (cathode).
The type of anodes used depends on the chemical composition of the electrolyte, to
which the substrate is exposed and the area to be protected.
At casings
Remember, cathodic protection is just one method used to prevent corrosion, not just in pipelines,
but in ships, offshore oil platforms, and other steel structures. Whether it's the best application for the
job, or the only one to be used, is often specific to the structure being protected.