What is recommended for the distance between the pipe and anodes for effective operation?

For effective operation of cathodic protection systems, it is recommended that there be a remote distance between the pipe and the anodes. This distance allows for the optimal dispersal of protective current from the anodes to the metal structure, ensuring that the protection is evenly distributed over the surface of the pipe. When anodes are too close to the pipe, the protective current may become concentrated in small areas, which could lead to uneven protection and potentially accelerate corrosion in those areas that do not receive adequate current. Therefore, positioning the anodes at a remote distance helps ensure that the entire area requiring protection receives sufficient cathodic current, promoting better overall performance of the cathodic protection system.