BRIDGE SHAFTS

Summary

Cathodic protection systems for long span bridge tower shafts in seawater are crucial for preventing corrosion and ensuring the structural integrity of these vital infrastructure elements. Due to the large scale of singular steel surfaces and the deep depths involved, both galvanic and impressed current cathodic protection systems are commonly employed. While these systems share similarities with jetty and port pile cathodic protection systems, they require special considerations due to the unique characteristics of bridge tower shafts.

Both galvanic and impressed current cathodic protection systems for long span bridge tower shafts in seawater address the unique challenges posed by the large-scale steel surfaces and deep depths. They aim to provide a protective electrical potential to prevent corrosion and extend the service life of these critical structures. The proper selection and installation of anodes, the design of electrical circuits, regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the cathodic protection systems for bridge tower shafts in seawater.

Evaluating the Cost-Effectiveness of Bridge Shafts CP System

  • Initial Installation Costs
  • Ongoing Maintenance and Operation Costs
  • Corrosion Damage Costs
  • Comparative Analysis

By considering the initial installation costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, potential corrosion damage costs and conducting a comparative analysis of alternative corrosion prevention methods, engineers and decision-makers can evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a CP system for bridge shafts. This evaluation helps determine the best approach to mitigate corrosion risks, protect the structural integrity of the bridge and optimise the use of financial resources.

ICCP

Our guide covers key considerations to ensure the effective implementation of these systems:

  • Anode Positioning for Homogenous Current Distribution
  • Titanium Disc (or other type) Anodes for Effective Protection
  • Installation of Zinc and Silver Reference Electrodes for Maintenance
  • Detailed Calculation of TR Unit Capacities
  • Power Supply and Electrical Design
  • Monitoring and Maintenance
  • Compliance with Standards and Regulations

By considering the positioning of anodes for homogenous current distribution, utilising titanium anodes, installing zinc and silver reference electrodes for maintenance purposes and conducting detailed calculations of TR unit capacities, our guide assists in the design of effective and reliable impressed current cathodic protection systems for bridge shafts. The guide provides engineers with practical recommendations to ensure the long-term durability and corrosion prevention of bridge shafts in various environmental conditions.

GALVANIC

Our guide covers key considerations to ensure the effective implementation of these systems:

  • Anode Positioning for Homogenous Current Distribution
  • Use of Long Slender Stand-Off Anodes for Efficiency
  • Importance of Homogenous Current Distribution
  • Potential Readings for Understanding Polarisation
  • Installation of Zinc and Silver Reference Electrodes for Maintenance
  • Monitoring and Maintenance
  • Compliance with Standards and Regulations

Our guide provides recommendations for designing efficient and reliable galvanic cathodic protection systems for bridge shafts. The guide highlights the use of long slender stand-off anodes for enhanced efficiency, emphasises the importance of achieving homogenous current distribution and suggests conducting potential readings to assess the polarisation status of the structure. These considerations help engineers optimise the design and implementation of galvanic cathodic protection systems, ensuring the long-term corrosion prevention and structural integrity of bridge shafts in various environmental conditions.