VETUS CONICAL ANODE 68mm.

Function and technical context

The Vetus 68 mm conical anode is a cathodic protection element designed to be installed on tail shafts and submerged metal structures of vessels with diesel or petrol engines with inboard-outboard propulsion. Its conical geometry facilitates adjustment on the propulsion shaft, guaranteeing continuous electrical contact with the metal to be protected. Acting as a sacrificial metal, the anode absorbs galvanic corrosion that would otherwise affect propellers, shafts, horns, hulls and other high-cost parts. Without proper cathodic protection, submerged vessel elements can suffer pitting, accelerated erosion, and irreversible structural loss within just a few sailing seasons.

When to replace this part?

Sacrificial anodes should be inspected at least at the beginning and end of each boating season; Its replacement is recommended when wear exceeds 50% of the anode mass, or if it presents cracks, partial detachments or obvious loss of volume. An exhausted anode is easily recognized by its whitish, friable appearance and noticeably reduced size compared to the new one. Replacing it preventively at each annual tune-up is the most economical measure to avoid corrosion of the shaft or propeller, breakdowns that can lead to unplanned grounding and much higher cost repairs.