underground steel tank

Underground steel storage tanks are essential for industries that store liquids, from petroleum products to hazardous chemicals. Ensuring these tanks’ longevity and structural integrity is paramount to prevent leaks, corrosion, and environmental hazards. One critical method employed by internal tank and pipeline inspection services companies for this purpose is cathodic protection, a technique that involves applying a sacrificial current to the steel tank to mitigate corrosion.

In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of cathodic protection testing and its role in safeguarding underground steel storage tanks.

What is Cathodic Protection?

Cathodic protection is a corrosion prevention technique that utilizes electrochemical principles to protect metallic structures, such as underground steel storage tanks, from corrosion. A galvanic cell is created by introducing a sacrificial anode material, typically made of zinc or aluminum, diverting corrosive currents away from the steel tank.

The Role of Underground Environment

Underground environments can be particularly harsh due to soil conditions, moisture, and the presence of corrosive substances. When buried underground, steel is susceptible to corrosion, which can compromise the tank’s structural integrity. Cathodic protection is, therefore, a proactive measure to counteract the corrosive effects of the environment.

Importance of Cathodic Protection Testing

While the installation of cathodic protection systems is a crucial step, regular testing is essential to ensure that the system is functioning effectively. Cathodic protection testing involves measuring parameters such as voltage, current, and potential to assess the level of protection provided to the underground steel tank. Regular testing helps identify deviations from optimal performance and allows corrective actions to be taken.

Types of Cathodic Protection Testing

There are two primary types of cathodic protection testing: potential measurement and current measurement.

• Potential Measurement: This involves measuring the voltage between the steel tank and a reference electrode. The goal is to ensure that the tank’s potential remains within the desired range for effective corrosion protection.

• Current Measurement: This testing involves measuring the output from the sacrificial anode to the steel tank. Monitoring the current is crucial to verify that the sacrificial anode is providing adequate protection.

Frequency of Testing

The frequency of cathodic protection testing depends on various factors, including the soil’s corrosiveness, the tank’s coating condition, and regulatory requirements. Generally, annual testing is recommended to promptly detect any issues and take corrective actions.

Compliance with Industry Standards

Cathodic protection testing for underground steel storage tanks is guided by industry standards, including those set by organizations like the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE). Adhering to these standards by tank inspection company ensures that testing procedures are comprehensive and in line with best practices.

Benefits of Cathodic Protection Testing

Corrosion Prevention: Regular testing ensures that the cathodic protection system is actively preventing corrosion, preserving the tank’s structural integrity.

Environmental Protection: Effective cathodic protection minimizes the risk of leaks, preventing the release of hazardous substances into the surrounding soil and groundwater.

Compliance: Meeting regulatory requirements for underground storage tanks is crucial, and cathodic protection testing is often mandatory to demonstrate compliance.

Cathodic protection testing is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of underground steel storage tanks. By regularly assessing the effectiveness of the cathodic protection system, industries can ensure that their tanks are safeguarded against corrosion, extending their service life and mitigating environmental risks. Adhering to industry standards and testing at recommended intervals are essential to derive the maximum benefits from cathodic protection systems for underground steel storage tanks.…