ANODE FLAPS 200x100x20

Function and technical context

Flap sacrificial anodes are cathodic protection elements specifically designed to be installed on vessels' hydraulic flaps and interceptors. Its mission is to act as a negative pole in the galvanic circuit that is formed when different metals come into contact with salt or brackish water, attracting electrochemical corrosion to itself and preserving intact the metal structures of the flaps, their articulation mechanism and the transom plate. Without effective cathodic protection in this area, galvanic corrosion directly attacks the pistons, hinges and aluminum or stainless steel surfaces of the flaps, compromising their operability and causing costly structural repairs. This zinc anode, with dimensions 200×100×20 mm, provides adequate sacrificial coverage for medium-large flaps, ensuring that the degradation is concentrated on the anode and not on the noble components of the vessel.

When to replace this part?

The clearest symptom that the flap anode has exhausted 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 from that point on the cathodic protection becomes insufficient. The practice recommended by most boat shops is to inspect and replace the sacrificial anodes at the beginning of each boating season, or at least once a year if the boat is launched in salt water continuously. Replacing the anode preventively before it is completely consumed is the most economical measure to avoid corrosion of the flaps and their mechanisms, avoiding unplanned grounding interventions and high-cost repairs.

Compatibility