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THE ROLE OF A SACRIFICIAL ANODE- PART III |
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Page 1 of 2 Determining which sacrificial anode will fully and safely protect a boat depends on a number of factors. As previously discussed, it is important to understand the physical properties of each anode material. In addition, boaters should also understand how each anode works with different hull compositions, sterndrives and types of water.
The best way to determine whether a boat is fully protected is by measuring its cathodic protection voltage or hull potential using a voltmeter. But, if one isn't available, here are some simple guidelines for selecting the right anode.
The hull material of a boat determines, in part, which anode material to use. A fiberglass boat having an inboard engine with bronze and stainless metal parts needs less protection than an aluminum hull or a boat with an
aluminum sterndrive. Zinc or aluminum alloy anodes will work well for these types of boats. The voltage generated by these anodes cannot overprotect, i.e., they cannot cause any damage no matter how much anode material is added. The maximum voltage generated is the voltage of the anode itself. Magnesium would also work with a fiberglass boat but only in freshwater. However, aluminum or wooden hulled boats can be overprotected by very active magneshttp://www.mvpgps.com/mambots/editors-xtd/mospage.gif
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