ANODE FLAPS 200x70x30

Function and technical context

Sacrificial flap anodes act as an electrochemical shield on the metal surfaces of the boat's trim flaps, absorbing galvanic corrosion that would otherwise attack the aluminum or stainless steel structural components of the stern. Made of high-purity zinc, this anode is sacrificially polarized by any galvanic couple that forms between dissimilar metals submerged in salt, brackish or fresh water. Correct installation on the flaps ensures that corrosion is concentrated on the consumable part—the anode itself—and not on the hinges, actuators, or flap surfaces. Without effective cathodic protection in this area, the trim steering mechanisms suffer accelerated deterioration, compromising the maneuverability and hydrodynamic performance of the boat.

When to replace this part?

The clearest symptom that the flap anode is exhausted is the appearance of pitting, surface erosion or whitish discoloration on the flaps themselves or on their fixing hardware, a sign that the cathodic protection is no longer effective. As a general maintenance rule, zinc anodes should be inspected at least once a season and replaced when they show wear greater than 50% of their mass or thickness. Replacing the anode preventively when beaching the boat for annual maintenance is the most economical measure to avoid costly repairs to the trim steering systems during the boating season.