RUDDER ANODE 70 mm.

Function and technical context

The rudder anode acts as sacrificial cathodic protection for the metal surfaces of the rudder and adjacent submerged structures of the vessel, preventing galvanic corrosion that occurs when in contact with salt or brackish water. Being a more electrochemically active metal, the anode corrodes instead of the structural parts of the rudder, preserving the integrity of the stainless steel, aluminum or bronze of the assembly. Without adequate anodic protection, the rudder can suffer serious corrosion damage that compromises the maneuverability of the vessel and generates high-cost repairs at the dock. This 70 mm anode with reference CMF70 is sized for direct installation on the rudder shaft or blade.

When to replace this part?

The clearest symptom that the rudder anode is exhausted is the visible reduction in its mass: when it has lost approximately 50% of its volume, it must be replaced without delay, as its protective capacity is seriously compromised. Inspection and replacement is recommended at least once a season, coinciding with the annual beaching of the boat, although in waters with high conductivity or areas of high galvanic activity consumption may be higher and require intermediate inspections. Replacing the anode preventively at each tune-up is the most economical measure to avoid rudder degradation and the high costs of structural repair.