Abstract: A cathodic protection system for metal water tanks in which one or more anodes are attached to a buoyant suspension unit. The suspension unit is secured by guys to both the walls and the floor of the tank, thus minimizing ice damage and system incapacity during winter months. The buoyant suspension unit is formed by individual flotation buoys joined in a dual, concentric ring connection pattern, allowing efficient and effective use of wire type anodes. The geometry of the suspension system is designed to keep the anode off the floor and to maintain the anode in the approximate vertical center of the body of water between normal high and low water levels. An ice protecting cap is positioned over the lead inlet. The dual concentric ring provides a more stable system, but also enables the lead connections to extend around the outer ring avoiding both electrical and mechanical interference with the anode wire.

Abstract: Offshore or onshore electrical surveys of buried or submerged structures such as pipeline are conducted in a fixed-cell-to-moving-cell fashion either before or after one or more established pipe-to-electrolyte potentials can be obtained. The results of the fixed-cell-to-moving-cell survey are then corrected by a summation of the fixed-to-moving-cell recorded potential and the established potential at the location of the established potential to obtain a reliable electrical survey of the structure. As indicated, the fixed-cell-to-moving-cell survey may be conducted either before or after the established potential is obtained or either before or after a disposable wire survey using a direct connection to the structure.

Abstract: A novel method and apparatus for cathodic protection of reinforced concrete structures includes an anode structure having an electrically conducting tape that is prevented from directly contacting the surface of the concrete structure. An electrically conducting coating is applied over the tape and in contact with the concrete surface to form an anode electrically connected to the tape and the concrete surface. The tape may conveniently employ a commercially available graphite tape with an adhered, electrically insulating backing. A preferred electrical connection to the tape includes a bus bar that compresses the tape by means of a screw engaging a masonry anchor mounted in the concrete structure. Preferably, the bus bar screw also mounts an electrically insulating junction box to the concrete surface to enclose the anode connection. The junction box may also cover an opening in the concrete surface through which the cathode connection to a reinforcing member is made.