Creation of high potential difference between two parts of the flange is possible due to the induction or occurrence of flashover, which results destruction of flange insulation. This event happens in part of pipelines which is used for insulating two parts of pipeline from insulating kit at the flange position. So, zinc anodes are used as earthing electrode in order to prevent these problems.

The chemical composition of these electrodes is similar to buried zinc anodes in soil which are produced according to ASTM B418 (Type 2) standard.

Zinc Earthing cell is used for the following two main applications:

1. Instead of copper rods to prevent corrosion in metal structures
2. In order to reduce the induced voltage (caused by high voltage instantaneous voltages, lightning and to prevent electric arc between the flanges) in pipelines. The pipeline can be established using this electrode without interruption in the cathodic protection current.

Zinc earthing cells can be binary or quaternary. Also, their collections stay on like earthy zinc anodes in backfill.

The composition of the backfill material is usually as follows:

To connect, a copper cable is welded to the steel core inside the electrode. The connection between the copper cable and the steel rod is covered with epoxy resin.