REGGIANI ANODE SHAFT 50

Function and technical context

Shaft anodes are cathodic protection elements designed to be electrochemically sacrificed in place of the noble metal parts of the propulsion system. This zinc anode for 50 mm shaft acts as a galvanic shield on the transmission shaft, absorbing corrosion caused by eddy currents and the potential difference between different metals in contact with sea or brackish water. Without adequate anodic protection on the shaft, corrosion advances directly on the stainless steel or bronze alloy of the shaft, potentially generating pitting, loss of diameter and vibration in the propeller, with the consequent risk for the tightness of the stuffing box and the structural integrity of the tail shaft.

When to replace this part?

A shaft anode should be inspected at least once a season, usually at the annual beaching. The unequivocal sign that it requires replacement is when it has lost approximately 50% of its mass or has an irregular and eroded surface; waiting for it to disappear completely leaves the shaft completely unprotected. It is recommended to replace it preventively at each grounding, since the cost of the anode is minimal compared to machining or replacing a corroded shaft.