MIL-HDBK-1004/10
Connection to Structure. Impressed current cathodic protection
2.5.3
anodes are normally supplied with integral lead wires. In impressed current
cathodic protection systems, the anodes are connected to the positive terminal
of the rectifier and a wire connection is made between the negative terminal
of the rectifier and the structure to be protected. The lead wires are
connected to the cathodic protection system by welding or mechanical
connections. These should have a low resistance and should be insulated to
prevent increased resistance or damage due to corrosion. In applications
where multiple anodes are used, the individual anode lead wires are often
attached to a larger header cable which is connected to the rectifier. As the
wire between the rectifier and the anode is under a high positive potential,
very rapid attack of the wire will occur where there is a break in the wire
insulation and the wire comes in direct contact with the electrolyte. The
insulation on this cable is very critical and high quality insulation and care
in installation is required for this application.
Other Requirements. As for all systems to be protected, the
2.5.4
structure being protected by impressed current must be electrically
continuous. The system should also include test stations which are used to
monitor the performance and to adjust the system for proper operation. As in
the case of sacrificial anode systems, impressed current cathodic protection
systems require periodic inspection, maintenance, and adjustment for
satisfactory operation.
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