General

This standard presents standard practices for using galvanic anodes to apply CP to the internal submerged surfaces of steel tanks used for the storage of potable and reclaimed water, drinking water, irrigation water, and fire protection water.

Impressed current CP systems are used extensively for the internal surfaces of water storage tanks; however, this standard addresses only galvanic anode CP systems. For a description of impressed current CP systems, refer to NACE SP0388.

The ground level and elevated storage tanks considered in this standard are of welded, bolted, or riveted-steel construction, and include many shapes and sizes.

CP as described in this standard may be used alone to control corrosion of submerged steel surfaces or may be used as a complement to the protection provided by protective coatings or other procedures.2 CP cannot protect surfaces that are not submerged; these surfaces must be protected by coatings alone.

CP may be installed to control corrosion in both newly constructed and existing tanks. When CP is used on existing tanks, it may be necessary to drain the tank during installation.

Tanks under consideration for application of CP are often associated with potable water and fire protection systems that may be subject to public health and safety regulations.3 This standard shall not infringe on those regulations. Proper disinfection of the tanks may be required after installation.

The provisions of this standard should be applied under the direction of a competent corrosion engineer. The term "corrosion engineer," as used in this standard, refers to a person who, by reason of knowledge of the physical sciences and the principles of engineering and mathematics as acquired by professional education and related practical experience, is qualified to practice corrosion control, including CP, for water storage tanks. Such persons may be Registered Professional Engineers or persons recognized as being qualified or certified as Corrosion Specialists or CP Specialists by NACE, if their professional activities include suitable experience in corrosion control and CP.

This standard may not be applicable in all situations. The corrosion engineer may consider alternative corrosion control methods.