COMPLETE RADICE ANODE SHAFT 60

Function and technical context

The 60mm propeller shaft sacrificial anode acts as an active electrochemical barrier between the shaft metal and the marine environment, absorbing galvanic corrosion that would otherwise directly attack the stainless steel or bronze alloy of the shaft. This component works on the transmission line's cathodic protection system, a critical assembly that includes the shaft, horn, stuffing box, and propeller. As the anode degrades in a controlled manner, it prevents electrolytic corrosion from compromising the structural integrity of the shaft and the metal elements of the boat's bottom. An exhausted or missing anode leaves the shaft exposed to pitting and loss of section, and can cause abnormal vibrations, accelerated wear of the stern tube bearings and even breakage of the shaft while sailing.

When to replace this part?

The most common symptoms of a depleted shaft anode are the presence of superficial pitting or uneven discoloration on the drive shaft, unusual vibrations transmitted from the driveline, and premature wear of the stern tube bearing. As a general rule, shaft anodes should be checked at each seasonal beaching and replaced when they have lost approximately 50% of their mass, regardless of their external appearance. Replacing the anode preventively at the beginning of each season is the most economical measure to avoid a serious failure in the axle line that could require an emergency grounding or complete replacement of the drive axle.