Sacrificial anode

SACRIFICIAL ANODE

A galvanic anode is the main component of a galvanic cathodic protection (CP) system used to protect buried or submerged metal structures from corrosion.

They are made from a metal alloy with a more “active” voltage (more negative reduction potential / more positive electrochemical potential) than the metal of the structure. The difference in potential between the two metals means that the galvanic anode corrodes, so that the anode material is consumed in preference to the structure.

The loss (or sacrifice) of the anode material gives rise to the alternative name of sacrificial anode

Magnesium
anode

Aluminium
anode

Zinc
anode

Magnesium
ribbon anode

Magnesium
ribbon anode

Pre-packaged
magnesium anode

Mg/Al
extruded rod

Boiler
water heater rod