ANODO HYDROMARINE 115X65 (ZN)

Function and technical context

Zinc sacrificial anodes like this Hydromarine 115x65 act as an electrochemical shield in the boat's cathodic protection system, consuming in a controlled manner to protect submerged metal parts—shafts, propellers, engine tails and aluminum or steel hulls—against galvanic corrosion. Zinc is the ideal material for salty and saline waters, where the difference in electrical potential between different metals can deteriorate structural components in a matter of weeks. Without an anode in good condition, galvanic corrosion directly attacks the highest-value metal surfaces, generating pitting, loss of material and structural failures that can compromise the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel.

When to replace this part?

The clearest symptom that the anode has exhausted its useful life is the visible reduction in its mass: when it has lost between 50% and 75% of its initial volume, it must be replaced without delay, as it no longer offers effective protection. The guideline recommended by nautical maintenance specialists is to inspect the zinc anodes at least once a season—or every time the boat is taken out of the water—and replace them preventively at the beginning of each boating season if they show noticeable wear. Renewing the anode before launching prevents irreversible corrosion in high-cost components such as propeller shafts, engine supports or exchangers, the repair of which is considerably more expensive than the anode itself.