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Updated: November 2nd, 2009 03:06 PM EDT

Cathodic Protection -- Adding Value to Your Client's Concrete Repairs

Reference Electrode installation
Matcor Inc.
Reference Electrode installation
Balcony repair – exposed
Matcor Inc.
Balcony repair – exposed
Jeeping for exposed concrete.
Matcor Inc.
Jeeping for exposed concrete.
Routing of wiring back to the location of junction boxes and rectifiers.
Matcor Inc.
Routing of wiring back to the location of junction boxes and rectifiers.
Completed project with decorative top coat applied.
Matcor Inc.
Completed project with decorative top coat applied.
Junction Boxes and Rectifiers located remotely in a utility room.
Matcor Inc.
Junction Boxes and Rectifiers located remotely in a utility room.

Anode Wire Assemblies -- These are the primary current conductors consisting of very thin wires that are applied to the top of the repaired surface.

Conductive Coating -- The conductive coating is a thick layer of conductive paint that covers the anode wire and distributes protective current over the entire surface area.

Rectifier/Junction Boxes -- These are small electrical boxes that provide the power and termination point for the various wires. They are typically placed out of sight in an accessible location.

First, the reference electrodes are installed. They are placed in the concrete in close proximity to the reinforcing steel. There are two wires that are then routed back to the system junction box -- the first is the actual reference electrode lead, and the second is a direct connection to the reinforcing steel. Installing reference electrodes adds minimal time to the excavation, clean and re-pour process.

Second, the reinforcing steel is checked to confirm electrical continuity. This is not a complex operation and requires only a voltage meter, some modest training and access to the reinforcing steel. Should areas of discontinuity be found, these are usually easily addressed using a variety of methods e.g. bonding a wire between the discontinuous rebar or utilizing a weld pencil rod (Number 2 rebar) to lay and imbed where needed.

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