Simulation calculation and experimental study of cathodic protection potential distribution in the tank farm

Purpose The corrosion problem of the tank bottom plate is growing more and more obvious as the usage period of the tank increases. The purpose of this study is to explore the specific effects of various factors on the potential distribution of the tank bottom plate and propose reasonable cathodic protection measures for tanks through simulation and indoor tests. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, several aspects (such as anode conditions, soil resistivity and so on) impacting the potential distribution of the tank bottom plate are explored by means of indoor tests and MATLAB software simulations, and the related results are presented using Origin software plots. Findings The results show that the potential value of the tank bottom plate is positively shifted with the increase of anode well depth and distance and the decrease of output current, and the overall potential distribution uniformity is higher; the anodic well output current has the greatest influence on potential distribution; to set up regional cathodic protection in the multitank area, the anodic well should be arranged in the central position between multiple tanks. Regional cathodic protection potential distribution for multiple anodes is more uniform, but a reasonable number of anodes should be selected, usually 2–3 anodes. Originality/value This paper provides solid theoretical and technical support for the future establishment of cathodic protection systems in station yards, as well as the renewal and transformation of cathodic protection systems in old tanks, by investigating the influencing factors on the potential distribution of tank bottom plate and verifying them through indoor experiments.