eThekwini Construction of Cathodic Protection Works – Tender 34225‑5W

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality has issued Tender 34225‑5W for the construction of cathodic protection works. This project forms part of the municipality’s infrastructure maintenance and asset protection programme, and it focuses on improving the longevity and reliability of buried metallic infrastructure such as pipelines and other steel components that are susceptible to corrosion.

Purpose and Scope

Cathodic protection is a corrosion control method used to protect metallic structures that are in contact with soil or water. Without proper corrosion management, underground pipelines, storage tanks, and metallic infrastructure can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks, failures, environmental harm, and costly repairs. This contract seeks a specialised contractor capable of constructing and installing cathodic protection systems that align with engineering best practices and industry standards.

The works for this tender include the design verification, installation, testing, and commissioning of cathodic protection systems at specified municipal sites. This typically involves the installation of sacrificial anodes or impressed current systems, cables, reference electrodes, monitoring points, and all necessary electrical connections to ensure that protected structures remain within acceptable electrochemical parameters over time.

Technical and Construction Requirements

The appointed contractor must have experience in corrosion control and cathodic protection installation. Core activities are expected to include:

Site investigations and assessment of existing infrastructure conditions

Installation of cathodic protection components as per technical specifications

Electrical and grounding works associated with the system

Testing and calibration of protection systems to ensure operational effectiveness

Commissioning and documentation of installed systems

Contractors must work in compliance with applicable engineering standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements outlined by the municipality.

Eligibility and Experience

Eligible bidders should be registered construction and engineering contractors with proven experience in corrosion protection and related civil/structural work. Demonstrated past performance on similar infrastructure projects is expected, along with appropriate technical staff and equipment.

Contract Importance

Cathodic protection works strengthen infrastructure resilience by preventing corrosion‑related failure. This supports more reliable municipal services tied to water, sanitation, and other underground utilities, while also reducing long‑term operational costs.

Qualified civil and corrosion engineering contractors are encouraged to prepare comprehensive submissions that demonstrate capacity, technical understanding, and compliance with procurement requirements.