Cathodic protection (CP) is a technique used to control metal surface corrosion by creating a cathode from an electrochemical cell.
cathodic protection
Cathodic protection is a method used to prevent rust and corrosion of metals. In this method, a metal is selected as anode and another metal (as cathode). By connecting an electric current, the metal of the anode is affected by oxidation and its electrons are transferred to the cathode. This process causes the formation of a protective layer of corrosion-resistant materials on the surface of the cathode metal. This protective layer can consist of gilding, painting, oiling or the use of special chemicals. Cathodic protection is used as one of the important methods in oil, gas, petrochemical, construction and marine industries.
A cathodic protection system usually includes the following components:
1. Anodes: Anodes are used in the cathodic protection system to provide the necessary electric current to the metal. Anodes are usually made of metals such as zinc, magnesium or aluminum.
2. Electrolyte: Electrolyte is used in the cathodic protection system as a medium to transfer electric current between anodes and cathodes. The electrolyte usually consists of salt solutions.
3. Cathode: The cathode is a metal that is exposed to corrosion and is protected from corrosion by the electric current supplied by the anodes.
4. Connections: Connections in the cathodic protection system are used to connect the anodes and the cathode to each other and create an electrical circuit between them. Connections usually include wires and metal parts.
5. Power supply: The power supply is used to supply the necessary electrical current to the cathodic protection system. This source can include a battery or a power generation system using external sources such as city electricity.