Advanced cathodic protection solutions: when experience makes the difference

Article published on the Industrial Technology website

In a niche sector like cathodic protection, field experience is crucial. SAIT srl, with over 25 years of experience, offers innovative solutions such as the new high-conductivity potential probe IRON PROBE, which simplifies corrosion monitoring.

Cathodic protection technology

Cathodic protection (PC) is a widely used technology to protect metal structures (buried, submerged, or reinforced concrete) from corrosion. Its roots date back to the 19th century with the studies of Sir Humphry Davy, who, based on the discoveries of Galvani and Volta, demonstrated that by making a metal's electrical state more negative, it is possible to eliminate the initiation of corrosion. This technology is now a standard applied in various fields: maritime, bridges and infrastructure, pipelines, and construction.

SAIT CEO Marco Facciadio, who hails from the Polytechnic University of Milan, emphasizes: “The cathodic protection process is now well-established, but what really makes the difference is field experience. In this sense, SAIT stands out for its innovation and quality. Thanks to this specialization, we have developed and patented the IRON PROBE potential probe, a cutting-edge instrument for monitoring the effectiveness of protection precisely and reliably.”

A small reality, a great experience

In 2022, SAIT filed a patent for the IRON PROBE.
“The probe represents a significant step forward in cathodic potential measurement technology. Thanks to its unique design and patented technology with integrated double or single coupon, it is able to operate in extreme environmental conditions, offering accurate and consistent measurements,” says Facciadio.

IRON PROBE: high conductivity and precision

IRON PROBE is specifically designed to measure the Eoff potential of buried metal structures.

Unlike traditional probes, it is made with high conductivity to be installed even on particularly resistive soils.

“Its ability to provide very precise measurements of the Eon potential, which deviates by only 20-30 mV from the true Eoff potential even in high impedance soils, is its strong point”, explains Facciadio.

The main operational benefits are:

1. Reduced doubts: Simulates the true potential, improving reliability.
2. Better correlation: The reading is closer to the true potential Eoff, simplifying the measurement technique and removing the need for ON-OFF measurements.

The patented porous septum and copper sulphate mixture eliminate interference and allow installation even far from the structure, with significant savings on excavation and restoration costs, always providing an accurate measurement.

SAIT's objective: Mandatory Cathodic Protection in the Water Sector

Since its market launch, IRON PROBE has also received positive feedback from sectors such as oil & gas. However, SAIT is pushing for cathodic protection to become mandatory in the water sector.

"In our country, water leakage in municipal networks (43.4 million people satisfied per year) is a huge problem. As a company, we propose making PC mandatory for steel water pipes as well to limit these losses," concludes Facciadio.

SAIT's professionalism and experience, combined with knowledge of the many variables at play (soil resistivity, acidity, conductivity), are the basis of every service offered, from design to installation, maintenance, and technical consultancy.