ANODO POPA DISCO Ø 230 (AL)

Function and technical context

The aft anode in a 230 mm diameter disc made of aluminum is part of the boat's cathodic protection system, acting as a sacrificial anode to preserve submerged metal parts against galvanic corrosion. This component is installed in the stern area, protecting it against electrochemical attack caused by the potential difference between different metals in contact with sea or brackish water. By sacrificing itself, it prevents corrosion from affecting the propeller, tailshaft, rudder and other critical metal structures of the transmission and hull. The aluminum alloy makes it especially suitable for salt and brackish water environments, where it offers more active protection than zinc anodes under certain conditions.

When to replace this part?

The clearest sign that the sacrificial anode needs to be replaced is when it has lost approximately half of its mass, indicating that its protective capacity is running out. As a preventive maintenance rule, the stern anodes should be inspected at least once a season – ideally at each beaching – and replaced whenever wear exceeds 50%, without waiting for them to disappear completely. Replacing the anode before it is completely consumed is the most economical way to avoid corrosion damage to much higher cost components, such as the tailshaft or propeller.