cathodic protection

American  

noun

1. protection of ferrous metals against electrolysis by the attachment of sacrificial anodes.

---

cathodic protection British  

noun

1. metallurgy a technique for protecting metal structures, such as steel ships and pipelines, from electrolytic corrosion by making the structure the cathode in a cell, either by applying an electromotive force directly or by putting it into contact with a more electropositive metal See also sacrificial anode

---

Etymology

Origin of cathodic protection

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Cathodic protection prevents corrosion where the coating has been damaged, according to the agency.

From Seattle Times

The citation found violations of state and federal requirements in the gas company’s cathodic protection systems, which are designed to prevent external corrosion by applying an electric current to underground steel pipelines.

From Los Angeles Times

“The five remaining cathodic protection areas are being actively worked on and are expected to operate normally within the next few  months,” the company said.

From Los Angeles Times

It was also shielded by what is known as cathodic protection, a low-level electric current that is run through the pipeline to inhibit corrosion. An analysis concluded that the potential for a leak due to corrosion was “adequately mitigated”.

From The Guardian

International industry rules call for operators to consider tools to detect corrosion in pipelines, leak detection equipment and so-called cathodic protection in environments where corrosion is a risk.

From BBC