Aluminum "heater treater" anodes are used in a variety of cathodic protection solutions including oilfield tanks, production vessels and more. The "heater treater" name is taken from a common oilfield vessel used to separate crude oil from water. However, this anode type is also used for other applications in a variety of industries.
The typical "heater treater" anode is a 3" diameter cast anode with a length of either 30 or 60 inches. A 3/4" diameter all-thread rod is cast into the center of the anode and extends outside the anode from either one or both ends. It is this configuration that is then converted to a number of different mounting or installation methods as follows:
Cable Suspension
A 3" x 30" or 3" x 60" anode can be assembled with a length of insulated cable that connects the suspended anode to the roof of a vessel or tank. The cable-to-anode connection is finished with an epoxy cap to eliminate stress or fatigue on the cable-to-anode connection.
There are several standard roof mounting options used to suspend the anodes. These include custom fabricated blind flange assemblies, Victaulic cap assemblies, and other components used for the task. Consult with a customer service representative for assistance in the selection of the proper equipment.
Blind Flange Mount
Either anode size can be fitted to a blind flange, 4" or larger, for insertion through a common tank nozzle. We weld the anode core to the interior of the blind flange, which is mated to the tank nozzle flange. As installation of this anode from the exterior of the tank can be tricky, due to the weight of the anode in a horizontal position, we can weld a pipe coupling to the blind flange exterior for attaching a pipe used to support the anode during installation.
No cable is required for this type of installation IF a dielectric insulating gasket is NOT utilized. If a dielectric insulating gasket is used, however, a cable must be connected from the exterior of the blind flange to the vessel being protected.
Redhead or Bluehead Mount
Similar to the Blind Flange mount mentioned above, a Redhead or Bluehead mounting assembly can be provided for the purpose of inserting the anode into a Victaulic style tank nozzle. In this case, the Redhead (for standard 4" SCH 40 grooved Victaulic couplings) or Bluehead (for standard 4" SCH 80 grooved Victaulic couplings) is affixed to the aluminum anode and then inserted into the vessel via the Victaulic nozzle. A Victaulic coupling then secures the anode assembly to the nozzle.
A cable must be used to electrically connect the anode to the vessel as the Redhead and Bluehead electrically isolate the anode from the vessel. If desired, an optional shunt can be installed between the flanges or on the cable to monitor the current output of the anode.
Composition and Performance
Typical Chemical Composition
Element
|
Percentage
|
Indium (In)
Zinc (Zn)
Silicon (Si)
Copper (Cu)
Iron (Fe)
Cadmium (Cd)
Others, each
Others, total
Aluminum
|
0.016 to 0.02%
4.75 to 5.75%
0.08 to 0.12%
0.003% Maximum
0.12% Maximum
0.002% Maximum
0.02% Maximum
0.05% Maximum
Remainder
|
Performance Characteristics
Anode Capacity
Potential (Calomel)
Consumption Rate
|
1150 amp hours per pound (Minimum)
1.080 volts (Minimum)
7.6 pounds per amp year
|
Available Sizes
Aluminum anodes are available in many different shapes, weights, and core configurations. While many of these configurations are listed in the following charts, many more anodes are available but not shown.
For assistance selecting the appropriate anode, contact a customer service representative for assistance.
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The international organization of the anodizing industry. Provides technical information, education, statistical data, market promotion and industry representation. New Jersey contract manufacturer offering aluminum steel and brass deep drawing, hydroforming, spinning, welding, aluminum dip brazing, machining and anodizing. Services include aluminum anodizing, painting, powder coating and custom fabrication.
