Boat Anodes / Zincs - Cathodic Protection

What is cathodic protection?

 

In a nut shell it is when two dissimilar metals are connected by a non-metallic conductor such as salt water. The less noble metal (anode) will dissolve and move to the more noble metal on a molecular level. In the terms of vessels, none are immune to it even if the boat is hauled out every day - such as when the aluminum skiff is taken out fishing over our favorite wreck. Here, while we are waiting for the fish to bite, out boat is losing electrons to the steel of the wreck. Now, to add to this dilemma, we add electronics to our vessel and introducing a possible stray DC current. Although this may sound daunting there is a lot a boat owner can do to try and mitigate electrolysis.

 

Sacrificial Anodes

 

One method that is inexpensive, very effective, relatively easy to install and maintain is by introducing a sacrificial, less noble piece of metal other than that of the surrounding metal. Sacrificial anodes are commonly found in three types of metal, zinc, aluminum and magnesium. Each of these metals perform best in a certain environment. For an anode to function optimally it requires being attached as close as practicable to the metal that is being protected. It requires good electrical bonding between the metals and the use of a correct sacrificial metal. Therefore, an owner should do a little research prior to bolting an anode to the hull and go sailing. Sacrificial anodes or zincs are not only there to protect the hull, they are used to protect propeller shafts, propellers and even the interior of heat exchangers and cooling systems. Sacrificial anodes, aside from being available in generic shapes and sizes they are also manufactured in custom form from manufacturers such as Canada Metal / Martyr Anodes, Sierra and Aqua Pacific for various application or specific to original equipment specifications.

 

Go2Marine stocks a comprehensive selection of metal sacrificial anodes manufactured from zinc. aluminum or magnesium manufactured by Canada Metal or Martyr Anodes that if installed correctly will provide justified ease of mind while out fishing or during sleep.