Why Do Cables Need Cathodic Protection?

Kelly Benjamin
July 14, 2021

Wires and cables transmit important data, information and more every single day. They must be able to perform – whether it’s a homeowner or an entire industry relying on these cables. In order to answer the question above, we must first ask another question:

What is cathodic protection?

Cathodic protection is a defense against the corrosion of metal. For the cable and wire industry, this means ensuring the copper wire does not break down or fault. Corrosion in our industry comes from many different factors, such as precipitation, temperature and pressure.

Does Cathodic Protection Work Against Precipitation?

It’s no secret that electricity and precipitation don’t play well together. Rain, sleet, snow or hail can all cause immense damage to an exposed cable or wire. Cathodic protection is able to absorb moisture so it does not affect the cable. This is especially true with outdoor wires and even damp, indoor locations.

Do I Need Cathodic Protection For Wires In Extreme Temperatures?

Wires must be able to withstand extreme temperatures in order to perform. This includes both hot and cold environments. A wire must be able to provide the necessary voltage for an application, regardless of the temperature. Without cathodic protection, that couldn’t be achieved.

Can Cathodic Protection Work In High-Pressure Situations?

Many applications require cables to be in locations that present high-pressure situations. This could include underground, in tight spaces and more. Cathodic Protection provides cables and wires the necessary protection from this pressure in order to keep shape and avoid physical damage.

Other Factors

Since cables and wires can be found pretty much anywhere, there is a great probability that harmful factors will come into contact with them. Cathodic protection serves a barrier to these “intruders” that could include animals, acidic materials, abnormal lighting (including sun rays), galvanization and more.

Because there are so many ways for wire corrosion to happen, Performance Wire and Cable proudly offers different options, suitable for any application.

The HALAR cable is designed specifically to reduce corrosion against chemicals. Its fluoropolymer insulation provides a necessary barrier that protects the annealed copper from harmful materials.

Our HMWPE Cathodic Protection Cable is ideal for direct burial wire applications. The HMWPE insulation withstands tremendous amounts of pressure, keeping the cables safe and performing at high levels.

KYNAR Cathodic Protection Cable is perfect for water and damp applications. The KYNAR fluoropolymer insulation specifically protects against water, chlorine, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid and more. This cable is dual-insulated with the HMWPE protection, as well.