SPARE ZINC 38 x 16mm.

Function and technical context

The 38 x 16 mm replacement zinc is a sacrificial anode designed to protect the submerged metal parts of the boat against galvanic corrosion, one of the most aggressive deterioration processes in marine environments. It acts within the cathodic protection system, sacrificing itself electrochemically to preserve higher value components such as propellers, propeller shafts, keels, heat exchangers or aluminum hulls. Its correct operation is critical: if the anode is completely consumed without being replaced, galvanic corrosion directly attacks the protected parts, potentially causing serious structural damage and costly workshop repairs. The dimensions of 38 x 16 mm make it suitable for mounting in small spaces where localized and precise protection is required.

When to replace this part?

Zinc anodes should be inspected at the beginning of each nautical season and replaced when they have lost between 50% and 60% of their mass, since from that point on their protection capacity decreases significantly. The most obvious symptoms of a depleted anode are a completely eroded surface, visible corrosion pits on adjacent metals, or characteristic discoloration in areas that the anode should protect. Replacing zinc preventively at least once a year—or sooner if the boat remains launched in areas of high salinity or scattered electrical currents—is the most economical measure to avoid irreversible damage to propellers, shafts and metal hulls.

Compatibility table