AIFO REFRIGERANT ANODE W/PLUG

Function and technical context

This cooling anode with cap for Aifo engines acts as a galvanic protection element within the engine cooling circuit, sacrificing itself electrochemically to protect the internal metal components - jackets, exchangers and manifolds - against galvanic corrosion caused by sea or brackish water. As it is integrated directly into the block or the cooling circuit and has a watertight closure plug, its replacement does not require completely emptying the system, which facilitates cleaner and faster maintenance on site. If the anode is completely consumed without being replaced, the noble metals in the cooling circuit are exposed to accelerated corrosion, with the consequent risk of pitting, internal leaks and serious damage to the engine block.

When to replace this part?

The cooling anodes must be inspected at least once per nautical season and replaced when they have lost approximately 50% of their mass, since from that point on the cathodic protection becomes insufficient. Signs that the anode is exhausted include the appearance of reddish or greenish deposits in the cooling water, indicative of active corrosion in metals in the circuit, or the presence of visible pits in the exchanger when the circuit is opened. Replacing the anode preventively at the beginning of each season is the most recommended practice to avoid irreparable damage to much higher cost components.

Compatibility