When taking a pipe to soil potential, what is the positive lead referred to as?

In cathodic protection testing, particularly when measuring pipe-to-soil potential, the positive lead is commonly referred to as the red lead. This convention aligns with electrical and electronic practices where red typically signifies the positive terminal. The purpose of the positive lead in this context is to connect to the pipe or structure being tested, allowing for the measurement of the electrical potential difference between the pipe and the soil.

Using the red lead as the positive connection ensures clarity and consistency in readings, as testers can easily identify and connect the leads without confusion. This understanding is crucial for professionals in the field, as it ensures accurate and reliable data collection during testing processes.