Apparatus for cathodically protecting reinforcing members and method for installing same

Abstract

A novel method and apparatus for cathodic protection of reinforced concrete structures includes an anode structure having an electrically conducting tape that is prevented from directly contacting the surface of the concrete structure. An electrically conducting coating is applied over the tape and in contact with the concrete surface to form an anode electrically connected to the tape and the concrete surface. The tape may conveniently employ a commercially available graphite tape with an adhered, electrically insulating backing. A preferred electrical connection to the tape includes a bus bar that compresses the tape by means of a screw engaging a masonry anchor mounted in the concrete structure. Preferably, the bus bar screw also mounts an electrically insulating junction box to the concrete surface to enclose the anode connection. The junction box may also cover an opening in the concrete surface through which the cathode connection to a reinforcing member is made. Wires connected to the terminals of a direct current power supply which provides the cathodic protection current are supplied to the junction box through which connections to the tape and cathode are made.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.