ANODE BUKH

Function and technical context

Sacrificial anodes are the fundamental pillar of cathodic protection in outboard and inboard engines and marine propellers: they corrode in a controlled manner to preserve the noble metal parts of the engine—aluminum casings, shafts, propellers and exhaust manifolds—against the galvanic attack of salt, brackish or water with high concentrations of minerals. This anode with reference TEN02053, manufactured for Bukh engines, acts as a sacrificial electrode within the galvanic protection system of the propulsion group, diverting towards itself the electrochemical current that would otherwise degrade high-cost structural components. Without effective cathodic protection, galvanic corrosion can compromise the integrity of the block, gearbox or drive shaft within a few weeks, with serious consequences for the seaworthiness and safety of the vessel.

When to replace this part?

The most obvious symptom that the anode has reached the limit of its useful life is the visible reduction in its mass: when the anode has lost approximately 50% of its volume, it must be replaced immediately, since below that threshold its cathodic protection capacity decreases drastically. The inspection and replacement of the anodes should be carried out at least once a season - usually coinciding with the annual beaching of the boat - or more frequently if the boat operates in waters with high salinity or next to electrical installations with stray currents. Replacing the TEN02053 anode preventively at each seasonal maintenance is the most economical measure to avoid corrosion repairs on Bukh engine components that can reach very high costs.

Compatibility