ANODO PLACA 400X (AL)

Function and technical context

The aluminum plate anodes act as active galvanic protection on the hull and submerged metal surfaces of the vessel, sacrificing themselves electrochemically to preserve more noble parts such as propellers, shafts, flying buttresses and aluminum or steel hulls. This type of anode works within the cathodic protection system, a passive but critical mechanism that prevents electrolytic corrosion generated by the potential difference between different metals in contact with water. When the anode degrades below the functional level, corrosion moves to the most expensive structural and propulsion components, potentially compromising the integrity of the hull or rendering the tailshaft unusable. Its plate format allows versatile installation on flat hull surfaces, offering a wide area of ​​exposure to the aqueous environment to maximize protection efficiency.

When to replace this part?

The clearest symptom that the plate anode has exhausted its useful life is a visible reduction in its mass of more than 50%, at which point it no longer offers sufficient cathodic protection; In advanced cases, pitting or incipient corrosion is seen in the adjacent metallic elements that the anode should be protecting. Standard professional practice recommends inspecting and replacing aluminum anodes at the beginning of each boating season or at least every 12 months in salt or brackish waters, and more frequently in areas with high electrical conductivity or presence of stray currents in the port. Renewing the plate anode preventively is the most economical maintenance intervention available: its cost is minimal compared to repairing a corroded shaft or replacing a propeller damaged by galvanic corrosion.