New Generation “Bare” Main Cathodes

High Performance Super Cathodes designed to replace older type cathode assemblies in anodically protected sulphuric acid coolers

Since the introduction of anodically protected shell and tube heat exchangers in the sulphuric acid process more than 30 years ago, the cathode rod has been electrically insulated from the rest of the cooler by means of a perforated PTFE sheath. Electrical contact between the rod surface and the sulphuric acid was possible only through the perforations of the sheath.

The requirement of higher acid temperatures and larger coolers demanded improvements in the anodic protection system. Mercad Equipment Inc. responded to this need and now offers a sheathless cathode to replace existing cathodes in any anodically protected acid cooler. These cathodes are designed to be installed in the coolers without any modification of the seal assemblies and will provide the following advantages:

• Substantially larger cathode surface contacts the acid and provides better and more consistent current distribution over the whole anodically protected cooler surface.
• Reduced electrical resistance and consequently lower voltage drop are obtained due to the larger diameter rod.
• Lower maintenance cost due to the extended life of the cathode rod, much longer than that of the older sheathed style of cathode. This life expectancy is the result of the larger metal volume and the lower current density at the surface of the cathode. The Mercad Equipment Inc. cathode is ideal for those plants wanting to extend the interval between major shutdowns.
• Savings on service expenses is realized with Mercad Equipment Inc. cathode assemblies, as you will need only minimal down time for inspection and cleaning since there is no PTFE sheath and perforations to become fouled. The bare surface of the Mercad Equipment Inc. cathode is easily inspected for corrosion.
• Improved Anodic Protection due to the more uniform electrical current distribution available throughout the anode surface of the vessel.

All cathodes are designed and customized for each client on a per order basis. We require the cooler serial number and existing cathode measurments.

Please Note: All cathodes are designed and customized for each client on a per order basis. We require from customers the cooler serial number and existing cathode measurments prior to fabrication.