What is the purpose of cathodic protection in tank systems?

The purpose of cathodic protection in tank systems is primarily to prevent corrosion in underground storage tanks. Corrosion can occur due to electrochemical reactions between the metal of the tank and the surrounding soil or water. This corrosion can lead to leaks, structural failures, and environmental contamination, which are significant risks for underground storage systems.

Cathodic protection achieves this by using sacrificial anodes or impressed current systems that reduce the electrochemical potential of the tank metal, thereby slowing down the corrosion process. This ensures the integrity of the tank and reduces the likelihood of fuel leaks, contributing to safety and environmental protection.

In contrast, enhancing fuel efficiency, facilitating faster fuel transfers, or improving customer service are not direct functions of cathodic protection and do not address the underlying issue of tank integrity and safety. Thus, the focus on corrosion prevention distinctly highlights the essential role of cathodic protection in maintaining the operational reliability and safety of tank systems.