ANODO EJE COLLAR LIGERO Ø 35 (AL) 2T

Function and technical context

The lightweight aluminum collar-type shaft anode with a diameter of 35 mm acts as sacrificial cathodic protection directly on the boat's drive shaft. Its mission is to absorb the galvanic corrosion that occurs when different metals come into contact in an electrolytic medium such as sea or brackish water, thus protecting the axle, the horn and the other metallic elements of the propulsion system. By being sacrificed in a controlled manner, this component prevents corrosion from attacking more expensive parts such as the drive shaft, propeller or bearings. The aluminum alloy makes it especially suitable for waters with medium-high salinity, where it offers optimal electrochemical performance compared to zinc alternatives. Its lightweight collar design facilitates assembly and disassembly for maintenance operations without the need to completely disassemble the propulsion line.

When to replace this part?

Shaft anodes should be inspected at least once a season, or each time the boat goes aground for annual maintenance. The unequivocal sign that the anode has completed its cycle is a reduction in its mass of more than 50% compared to the new state: when the collar has a very irregular, eroded surface or has noticeably lost volume, it must be replaced immediately. Not waiting for the anode to disappear completely is the golden rule, since a shaft without sufficient protection can suffer irreparable corrosion pits in a few weeks of sailing, with the consequent cost of replacing the entire shaft.