2025 Kentucky UST Operator Certification Complete Practice Test

Sacrificial anode cathodic protection systems are most effective under conditions where the tank and piping are well coated. A well-coated tank minimizes the surface area that is exposed to corrosive elements in the environment, particularly soil and moisture, which can lead to corrosion. The sacrificial anode works by corroding instead of the metal structure it is protecting.

In scenarios where the coating is intact and effective, the overall corrosion rate can be significantly reduced, allowing the sacrificial anode to provide effective protection without quickly depleting its own material. This synergy between the protective coating and the anode ensures that the corrosion protection remains optimized and prolongs the lifespan of the storage tank and piping system.

When the tank is poorly coated, exposed areas may be more vulnerable to corrosion, undermining the protective capabilities of the sacrificial anode and resulting in inadequate protection. Additionally, dry surrounding soil or an external power source would not inherently increase the effectiveness of sacrificial anodes in this context.

Therefore, having a well-coated tank and piping creates an ideal condition for the sacrificial anode cathodic protection system to function properly and provide adequate corrosion protection.