BARRAS LISAS Ø 18 L. 400 (ZN)

Function and technical context

Smooth zinc bars with a diameter of 18 mm and a length of 400 mm are passive cathodic protection elements used in submerged metal structures of boats, hulls, propeller shafts and stainless steel or aluminum appendages exposed to salt or brackish water. Zinc acts as a sacrificial anode in the galvanic couple, degrading in a controlled manner instead of the noble metals it protects, thus preventing electrolytic corrosion of critical structural components. Its smooth bar format facilitates custom installation, workshop machining or cutting and drilling to adapt to different aluminum, steel or bronze supports, keels, sideboards or crossbars.

When to replace this part?

The clearest symptom that the zinc rod has exhausted its useful life is the visible reduction in its cross section: when the anode has lost 50% to 60% of its mass, it must be replaced immediately to ensure continued protection of adjacent metal parts. The inspection of the zinc anodes should be carried out at least at the beginning and end of each nautical season, and more frequently in areas of high salinity or with stray electrical currents at anchor. Preventively replacing the zinc bars before they are completely used up prevents irreversible damage due to corrosion in shafts, rudders and submerged structural elements, the repair of which is considerably more expensive than replacing the anode itself.