Cathodic Protection Tester Practice Exam

What instrument is typically used to measure voltage in a cathodic protection system?

1. Ohmmeter

2. Voltmeter

3. Multimeter

4. Ammeter

The correct answer is: Voltmeter

In a cathodic protection system, measuring voltage is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the protection being provided to metal structures, such as pipelines or storage tanks, against corrosion. The proper instrument for this task is a voltmeter. A voltmeter is specifically designed to measure electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. In the context of cathodic protection, it allows technicians to determine the potential between the protected metal surface and a reference electrode, which is essential for identifying whether the protection is adequate. An ideal protective potential typically falls within specific ranges depending on the type of system and the electrolyte involved. While other instruments like a multimeter can also measure voltage, it is primarily a combination tool that can measure various electrical parameters including current and resistance. However, when the focus is solely on measuring voltage in a cathodic protection context, a dedicated voltmeter is the standard instrument used by professionals to ensure accurate and reliable readings.