ANODO 210X70X25mm (AL)

Function and technical context

This 210×70×25 mm aluminum anode acts as sacrificial cathodic protection on the hull or submerged metal elements of the boat, attracting electrolytic corrosion that would otherwise attack more noble metals such as bronze, stainless steel or aluminum of propellers, shafts and keels. It works within the passive galvanic protection system, without the need for an external energy source: its more negative electrochemical potential makes it the electrode that is preferably consumed in contact with seawater or fresh water. If this component is completely depleted or not replaced in time, the structural and propulsion elements of the boat are left unprotected against galvanic corrosion, which can lead to irreversible damage to propeller shafts, tail anodes, metal keels or aluminum hulls. Its aluminum alloy composition makes it especially suitable for navigation in seawater and brackish water, where it offers greater dissolution efficiency than zinc anodes under certain conditions.

When to replace this part?

The clearest sign that the anode needs to be replaced is when it has lost approximately 50% of its mass: from that point on the remaining active surface is insufficient to properly protect the entire submerged metal surface. In installations with high eddy currents, anchorages in ports with high density of vessels or frequent navigation in estuaries, wear can be significantly faster, so visual inspection is recommended at each beaching or at least once a season. Replacing the anode preventively before the start of the sailing season is the professional practice that avoids costly repairs to shafts, propellers and propulsion structures that, once corroded, require complete replacement.