Cathodic Protection with Parallel Cylinders

Abstract

Anodes should be placed so as to supply a uniform current density to the surface of the protected cathode to maintain it within a specified potential range relative to the adjacent electrolytic medium. Analysis of two or more parallel circular cylinders is carried out by solving Laplace's equation with the uniform current density on the cathode. The computer is used to sum terms in a solution by separation of variables, and results show the potential variation and average potential drop as functions of the distance of separation. Potential-contour plots compare the extent of significant electric fields for one and for two anodes