subject: The Many Uses Of Magnesium Anodes [print this page] The basics The basics
When you need to protect your boat or vessel in fresh water, using magnesium anodes is a recommended option. Zinc and aluminum anodes should not be used in fresh water conditions as they do not perform as effectively in fresh water. The reason for this is that magnesium has a higher driving voltage that zinc and aluminum, providing you effective and prolonger protection. Similarly, using a magnesium sacrificial anode in salt or brackish water could actually speed up its corrosion.
Magnesium anodes, when procured from a reputable brand, are designed to deliver exceptional performance. They can provide you efficient, and measurable corrosion protection in fresh water bodies such as lakes and rivers. Magnesium anodes can be used at jetties, ships, boats, carrier, ballast tank, small craft boat, offshore sea equipment and pontoons.
Uses of a magnesium anode
In addition to marine boats and marine vessels, these anodes are also used for industrial and commercial purposes. There are manufacturers that provide anodes for use with heat exchangers, and underground structures. Underground structures such as water or fuel tanks, pipelines and tubing will corrode if left unprotected. This would naturally cause the tank or pipe to leak over a period of time, leading to a risk of contamination. Using a Magnesium anodes at strategic locations thus becomes very important.
If you are using such anodes on buried structures, you would need to specify details such as the size of the underground structure, the type of soil, and certain other factors to enable your chosen manufacturer or distributor to make an appropriate suggestion. As different industries have changing demands, leading manufacturers will likely have the exact solution to your corrosion-related concerns.
Installation of magnesium anode
Magnesium anodes are also suitable for use submerged on barges, tanks, dams, and fresh water vessels. In order to protect all of these structures, it is vital to install the anode appropriately. The flush-mount anode is usually welded or bolted on to the structure. Such anodes likely feature cast-in galvanized steel straps that ease the installation process.
Some anode varieties that are used on buried structures such as propane tanks, pipelines, and other similar structures are available with copper wires that help maintain the continuity between your anode and the structure that needs protection. An aluminium and Zinc anode will not work effectively in such conditions.
Using backfill
When using magnesium anodes for underground applications, using backfill is recommended as it helps retain moisture around the anode. It also helps to lower the anode-to-earth resistance. Backfill comprises 75% Gypsum, 20% Bentonite, and 5% Sodium Sulfate. It is a non-hazardous mixture that increases the efficiency of the cathodic protection process. The backfill is contained in a cotton bag, secured around the inner magnesium anode, and moistened by pouring water so as to enable more current to flow.
