Cathodic protection

Control de Corrosión para Estructuras Metálicas

La protección catódica es una técnica electroquímica diseñada para prevenir y controlar la corrosión en estructuras metálicas expuestas a ambientes agresivos, como suelos húmedos, agua de mar o entornos industriales con electrolitos. Convertir la superficie metálica a proteger en un cátodo de una celda electroquímica detiene el proceso de corrosión y extiende la vida útil de la instalación.

How does cathodic protection work?

The basic principle is to supply electrons to the metal we want to protect, so that it does not lose electrons to the corrosive medium. This can be achieved in two ways:

Sacrificial Anodes for Cathodic Protection

Impressed current cathodic protection

This method does not require external energy and is based on connecting the metal structure with another more reactive metal (such as zinc, magnesium, or aluminum). That metal “sacrifices itself” because it corrodes before the main structure, thus protecting the target metal.

In larger or more complex systems, a direct current source is used to inject electrons directly into the metal structure. This creates a controlled flow of energy that keeps the surface protected.

CORROSION ENGINEERING

Cathodic Protection in Pipes

Corrosion is the main challenge for the durability of fluid transport networks. At Procainsa, we implement Cathodic Protection solutions in Pipes designed to stop the deterioration of steel in contact with soil or water. Especially effective in critical sections, our sacrificial anode systems for pipes provide autonomous galvanic defense that guarantees operational safety and the integrity of your assets. Through precise technical design, we transform vulnerable infrastructures into protected systems compliant with international regulations.

Advantages of implementing cathodic protection

Implementing a cathodic protection system provides clear benefits:

Increases the lifespan of metal structures.
Reduces long-term maintenance costs.
Minimizes the risk of structural failures and leaks.
Allows for more predictable control of corrosion risk than other passive methods

Where is cathodic protection applied

Cathodic protection is an essential solution in applications such as:

Buried or submarine pipelines in water, gas, or oil networks.
Metal storage tanks that are in contact with wet soils or liquids.
Hulls and naval structures, docks and piles in marine environments.
Industrial structures and metal bridges where corrosion can compromise structural integrity.

Our Experience in Cathodic Protection

At Procainsa SA, we offer vast experience and a solid commitment in all aspects of cathodic protection. Since 1988, we have led the market, designing, installing, and maintaining complete systems with sacrificial anodes and impressed current. Our NACE-certified technical team guarantees the impeccable execution of all cathodic protection-related work.

What structures do our systems protect?

We design and install cathodic protection systems tailored to your needs, whether with sacrificial anodes or impressed current systems. We apply these solutions to pipelines, buried tanks, marine structures, and industrial equipment, always guaranteeing the integrity and safety of assets.

Maintenance of Cathodic Protection Systems

We offer comprehensive maintenance of Cathodic Protection systems, which includes periodic inspections to ensure their optimal functioning. Our services are adapted to the needs of each client.

Inspection and adjustment
Potential measurement
On/Off potential logging
Exhaustive analysis
Installation of specialized systems
Potential measurement
Detailed analysis

Supply for Cathodic Protection systems

We offer top-quality products for Cathodic Protection systems, manufactured in collaboration with internationally recognized suppliers. We guarantee exhaustive quality control for each component supplied, ensuring excellence at all stages of the process.

Reference electrodes
Impressed current anodes
Manufacturing of Transformer-rectifiers
AC-DC current discriminators
Potential test points
Anti-corrosion tapes and special paints
Dielectric joints
Calcined petroleum coke

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is a sacrificial anode?

It is a more reactive metal that, when connected to the structure to be protected, corrodes first, preserving the target metal.

Can I apply cathodic protection to already corroded structures?

Yes. Although it is more effective to apply it preventively, it can also protect structures with existing corrosion.

What regulations govern the design of Cathodic Protection in Pipelines?

At Procainsa, all our projects are developed under strict compliance with international standards such as ISO 15589-1 (specific for onshore steel pipeline transport systems) and the UNE-EN 12954 series of standards. These regulations ensure that the protection potential levels are adequate to prevent both generalized corrosion and the risk of overprotection.

How long do sacrificial anodes last?

It depends on the environment and the type of anode, but they are usually designed to last several years before needing replacement.

Is cathodic protection better than anti-corrosion coatings and paints?

They are complementary techniques. Cathodic protection acts electrochemically, while coatings serve as a physical barrier.

Does a cathodic protection system require maintenance?

Yes, although less than other active methods, it requires regular check-ups to ensure continuous effectiveness.

When is the use of sacrificial anodes preferred in pipelines?

Sacrificial anodes for pipes are the ideal solution for shorter infrastructures, sections with high-quality coatings, or areas where no external power supply is available. This galvanic system is self-managed, requires minimal maintenance, and is highly effective in mitigating localized corrosion in low to medium soil resistivity environments.