By Carlos F Molina

Here are my thoughts on the numeral 5.1 of API 571, “Determination of Need for Cathodic Protection”

It starts saying that “The need for cathodic protection shall be determined for all aboveground storage tanks.

Determination of Need for Cathodic Protection

Almost any tank of certain size that is in contact with soil will need a cathodic protection in the bottom, because coatings are not perfect (NACE SP0169), so it will be a moment when corrosion starts to act. With more reason if the surface is not coated. (more…)

By Eng. Carlos F Molina
To protect metal from corrosion, there are several things that can be made
A tank bottom can make good use of cathodic protection and coatings. The most effective protection for a tank bottom is a combination of a corrosion resistant coating and a cathodic protection system (says API 571 and NACE RP0193). The provision of an insulating coating to the structure will greatly reduce the current demand for cathodic protection.

(more…)