PiggyBack™ Tank Bottom Anode System (PBT)

CerAnode’s PBT PiggyBack™ Tank Bottom system is a continuous MMO mixed-metal-oxide linear anode solution engineered specifically for soil-side protection of Above-Ground Storage Tank (AST) bottoms.

The system comes pre-assembled in concentric loops, factory-connected, and delivered ready-to-lay, eliminating field splices and simplifying installation.

Designed for use under new tanks, during tank-bottom replacement, or in “double-bottom” or secondary containment applications, the PBT accommodates even tight clearance conditions

Design & Materials:

Continuous MMO Anode Wire: Utilizes durable MMO-coated titanium wire for consistent, long-lasting ICCP performance.
Concentric Loop Configuration: Factory-arranged in multiple concentric loops (arcs) to follow tank-bottom symmetry and optimize current distribution.
Redundant Leads: Each loop includes individual redundant header leads to ensure reliability and simplify troubleshooting.

Performance & Efficiency:

Optimized Current Distribution: The loop geometry and spacing are computer-designed to provide near-isometric current across the tank bottom with minimal attenuation.
Low Groundbed Resistance: High total anode wire length and properly designed loops reduce groundbed resistance, improving cathodic protection (CP) efficiency.
Power-Efficient: Engineered for lower rectifier load and better power utilization compared to discrete anode systems.

Durability & Environment:

Long Design Life: Custom-designed for a 50-year service life, minimizing need for replacement.
Environmentally Safe Components: Materials used are inert and benign; the system can include a “green” coke-sock backfill option if needed.
Minimal Interference Risk: Close-proximity design reduces stray current effects on adjacent structures.

Installation & Maintenance:

Factory Ready: Arrives onsite with full factory connections—no field splices required.
Easy Layout: Concentric loops are laid directly under the tank footprint.
Optional Mesh Protection: Available with a plastic mesh sleeve to prevent shorts when wire is buried very close to the tank bottom.

Applications

Soil-side cathodic protection under aboveground storage tanks (ASTs)
Tank-bottom replacement (re-bottoming) for existing tanks.
Double-bottom or secondary containment systems where space is constrained.
New construction tanks with plastic or polymer secondary containment liners.
Rim or annular plate protection ensures uniform bottom corrosion control.

Installation & Accessories

Prepare Substrate: Remove debris, level sand (or other backfill) beneath the tank as per CP design specifications.
Lay Concentric Loops: Uncoil and place the factory-assembled loop set under the planned tank footprint
Connection to Header: Connect loop redundant leads to the CP header cable / junction box as per system drawings
Optional Mesh Sleeve: If used, slide the plastic mesh over the loop assembly to isolate the wire from tank bottom.
Backfill: Cover with sand or required backfill, ensuring good contact and proper embedment
Commission System: Energize rectifier, verify current distribution, and measure potentials per accepted CP protocols.
Periodic Monitoring: Inspect test leads, measure on / off potentials, and perform maintenance per design life schedule