Reclamation Information Sharing Environment (RISE)

This study evaluated modular anode sleds as a flexible cathodic protection (CP) solution for immersed steel structures. Five sled configurations with varying anode spacing were tested on submerged gates to assess performance. Nearly all sleds met the AMPP 100 mV polarization criterion within one day, confirming effective corrosion mitigation. However, sleds with widely spaced anodes (1×5 Long and Medium) significantly outperformed tightly grouped designs (Short, Stacked), delivering higher current output and sustained polarization. The modular sleds were easy to install, required no structural modifications, and allowed for surface-level maintenance. Results confirm that anode spacing is critical to minimizing interference and maximizing CP efficiency. Modular sleds offer a practical, retrievable alternative to traditional CP systems, especially where dewatering is impractical. Design recommendations include optimizing anode layout, ensuring robust electrical connections, and implementing routine monitoring. These findings support broader adoption of sled-based CP systems across Reclamation infrastructure.