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E-2 CATHODIC PROTECTION

Table of Contents

2.1 PURPOSE .......................................................................................................................................................1

2.2 SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................1

2.3 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS..............................................................................................................1

2.4 DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................................1

2.5 GENERAL APPLICATION OF CATHODIC PROTECTION......................................................................2

2.6 ELECTRICAL ISOLATION ..........................................................................................................................3

2.7 SACRIFICIAL ANODES ...............................................................................................................................3

2.8 IMPRESSED CURRENT SYSTEMS ............................................................................................................4

2.9 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF ALUMINUM LOWER UNITS AND OTHER METALLIC

COMPONENTS MOUNTED ON NON-METALLIC HULLS....................................................................................4

2.10 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF ALUMINUM HULLS ...............................................................................5

2.11 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF STEEL HULLS..........................................................................................5

2.12 HULL POTENTIAL MONITOR....................................................................................................................6

E-2 APPENDIX .....................................................................................................................................................8

E-2.Ap.3 SACRIFICIAL ANODES - MEASUREMENT AND APPLICATION........................................................9

E-2.Ap.4 IMPRESSED CURRENT PROTECTION - APPLICATION .......................................................................9

E-2.Ap.5 ....................................................................................................................................................................... 9

E-2.Ap.6 ......................................................................................................................................................................10
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E-2 CATHODIC PROTECTION

Based on ABYC's assessment of the existing technology, may be separate metals or dissimilar areas on the same
and the problems associated with achieving the goals of metal. The cell includes the external circuit that permits the
the standard, ABYC recommends compliance for systems flow of electrons between the anode and the cathode.
and associated equipment manufactured and/or installed
after July 31, 2002. Corrosion - The deterioration of a metal, by chemical and
electrochemical reaction with its environment.
2.1 PURPOSE
Corrosion Controller - An automatic or manually operated
This standard is a guide for the design, installation, and use device, in a controlled or regulated cathodic protection
of cathodic protection systems on boats. system, to regulate the flow of electric current for corrosion
control.
2.2 SCOPE
Corrosion Monitor - An installed hull potential meter
This standard applies to the use of galvanic anodes and (voltmeter) capable of measuring the voltage difference
impressed current systems if installed on a boat. between a reference electrode and a metal hull, or cathodic
bonding system, when they are immersed in the same
2.3 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS electrolyte.

ABYC - American Boat & Yacht Council, Inc., 3069 Couple - Two dissimilar metals or alloys in electrical
Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD 21037-1416. contact with each other that have different potentials and
Phone: (410) 956-1050. Fax: (410) 956-2737. Web site: become anodes or cathodes when in common contact with
www.abycinc.org. an electrolyte. A couple may also be formed on the surface
of the same metal.
2.4 DEFINITIONS
Current Density - For corrosion purposes, the current per
For the purpose of this standard the following definitions unit area of the anodes or cathodes expressed in
apply: milliamperes per square foot.

Amphoteric - Capable of reacting chemically with an acid Dezincification - A corrosion phenomenon resulting in the
or a base. Aluminum is amphoteric, and highly susceptible selective removal of zinc from copper-zinc alloys. This is
to corrosion when overprotected. the most common form of de-alloying.

Anode (galvanic anode) - The electrode of an Dielectric Shield - In a cathodic protection system, an
electrochemical cell with the more negative potential. The electrically non-conductive material, such as a coating, or
less noble metal of an electrolytic cell that tends to corrode. plastic sheet, that is placed between an anode and an
adjacent cathode to avoid current wastage and to improve
Calcareous Coating or Deposit - A layer consisting of a current distribution to the cathode.
mixture of calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide
deposited on surfaces being cathodically protected because Driving Potential - The voltage difference between the
of the increased pH adjacent to the protected surface. anode and cathode of a couple.

Cathode - The electrode of an electrochemical cell with the Electrode - A conductive material, in an electrolyte,
more positive potential. The more noble metal of an through which electrical current enters or leaves.
electrolytic cell that tends not to corrode.
Electrolysis - Chemical changes in a solution, or
Cathodic Bonding - The electrical interconnection of metal electrolyte, due to the passage of electric current.
objects in common contact with water, to the engine
negative terminal, or its bus, and to the source of cathodic NOTE: This term is loosely applied to corrosion
protection. processes; however, since the term refers to solution
phenomena not to corrosion, its use to indicate corrosion
Cathodic Disbondment - The destruction of adhesion should be discouraged.
between a coating and its substrate by products of a
cathodic reaction. Electrolyte - A liquid in which ions are capable of
migrating. A liquid capable of conducting current.
Cathodic Protection - Reduction or prevention of corrosion Solutions of acids, bases, and salts in water are electrolytes.
of a metal by making it cathodic by the use of sacrificial
anodes or impressed currents. Galvanic Corrosion - The corrosion that occurs at the
anode(s) of a galvanic cell.
Cell - Electrochemical system consisting of an anode and a
cathode immersed in an electrolyte. The anode and cathode

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Galvanic Couple - A pair of dissimilar conductors, Reference Electrode - A metal and metallic-salt (e.g., a
commonly metals, in electrical contact in electrolyte. silver/silver chloride half cell) mixture in solution that will
develop and maintain an accurate reference potential to
Galvanic Current - The electric current that flows between which the potential of other metals immersed in the same
metals or conductive nonmetals in a galvanic couple. electrolyte may be compared.

Galvanic Isolator - A device installed in series with the Sacrificial Anode - A less noble metal intentionally
(AC) grounding (green) conductor of the shore-power cable connected to form a galvanic cell with a more noble metal
to effectively block low voltage DC galvanic current flow, for the purpose of protecting the more noble metal from
but permits the passage of alternating current (AC) corrosion.
normally associated with the (AC) grounding (green)
conductor. Shaft Brush - A carbon or metalized graphite block that
makes electrical contact to a rotating, or otherwise moving,
Galvanic Series - A list of metals and alloys arranged in shaft in order to improve electrical contact to the cathodic
order of their potentials as measured in relation to a bonding system.
reference electrode when immersed in seawater. The table
of potentials is arranged with the anodic or least noble Sliprings - One or more continuous conducting rings that
metals at one end, and the cathodic or most noble metals at mate to shaft brushes to provide electrical contact to
the other (see TABLE I). rotating, or otherwise moving, shafts in order to improve
electrical contact to the cathodic bonding system.
Half-cell (reference electrode) - One electrode in an
electrochemical cell used as a reference for measuring the Stray Current Corrosion - Corrosion that results when a
potential of other metals. current from a battery or other external electrical (DC)
source causes a metal in contact with an electrolyte to
Hull Potential - The composite potential (voltage) of the become anodic with respect to another metal in contact
hull cathodic surfaces in an electrolyte as measured against with the same electrolyte.
a referenced electrode.
2.5 GENERAL APPLICATION OF CATHODIC
Hydrogen Potential - Over-voltage associated with the PROTECTION
liberation of hydrogen gas.
2.5.1 A cathodic protection system shall be capable of
Impressed Current - Direct current supplied by a device inducing and maintaining a minimum negative shift of 200
employing a power source external to the electrode system mV relative to the potential of the least noble metal being
of a cathodic protection installation. protected.

Ion - An electrically charged atom or group of atoms. A NOTES:

form of current flow in liquids and wet wood.
1. The negative potential (e.g., -1050 mV as
Mill Scale - The heavy oxide layer formed during hot compared to silver/silver chloride reference electrode) that
fabrication or heat treatment of metals. Mill scale is can be achieved by some corrosion control systems will
cathodic to the base metals. result in some decrease in effectiveness of anti-fouling
paints. Because the decrease in effectiveness increases
Noble - The positive direction of electrode electrical with higher negative voltages, the negative potential
potential relative to other material in the galvanic series. should be kept as close to the optimum value as possible
(see TABLE II). A reference potential reading in excess
Open-circuit Potential - The potential of an electrode of -1100 mV indicates excessive cathodic protection.
measured with respect to a reference electrode or another
electrode when no current flows to or from it. 2. The need for a cathodic protection system for
metal appendages on non-metallic hulls may not be
Passivation - The formation of a protective oxide film, justified if the metals coupled are galvanically compatible
either naturally or by chemical treatment, on certain active- (see TABLE II); however, individual testing on a case by
passive metals like stainless steels. case basis is necessary.

pH - An expression of hydrogen-ion activity, of both 2.5.2 Hull-mounted metallic trim tabs shall be installed
acidity and alkalinity, on a scale whose values run from 0 in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and
to 14 with 7 representing neutrality. may be isolated from the boat's cathodic bonding system to
reduce the load on the boat's cathodic protection system.
Polarization - The deviation from the open circuit potential
of an electrode resulting from the passage of current, such 2.5.2.1 Trim tabs shall be electrically isolated from their
as from anodes and impressed current systems. electrically actuated mechanisms, in accordance with
ABYC E-9, Direct Current (DC) Electrical Systems on
Boats.

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2.5.2.2 If a stainless steel trim tab system is connected to 2.5.9 Cathodic Bonding Conductors
a boat's cathodic bonding system, the cathodic protection
system's output rating shall be increased to provide the 2.5.9.1 Cathodic bonding conductors shall be insulated
additional required protection. stranded copper wire, uninsulated copper strip, or copper
tubing. Copper braid shall not be used for this purpose.
2.5.3 Immersed cathodic metal surfaces shall be
favorably matched in anode to cathode area relationship. 2.5.9.2 Wire, where used as a cathodic bonding
conductor, shall be at least #8 AWG.
NOTE: Coating of cathodic metal surfaces may be used
to achieve the relationship. 2.5.9.3 Cathodic bonding conductors fabricated from a
copper strip shall have a minimum thickness of 1/32 inch
2.5.4 Coatings shall not contain pigments that form (0.8 mm) and a minimum width of 1/2 inch (13 mm).
galvanic couples with the substrate or coatings on substrate.
NOTE: These requirements are based on physical
NOTE: Anti-fouling paint manufacturer's recommended strength, the ability to make and maintain low resistance
barrier coatings upon substrate can prevent metallic anti- connections, and current ratings.
fouling coatings from forming galvanic couples.
2.5.9.4 Insulated conductors shall be selected from Table
2.5.5 Coatings on surfaces shall be capable of V, SAE Conductors; Table VII, Conductors; and Table
tolerating alkali generated by the cathodic protection VIII, Conductor Circular Mil Area and Stranding, in ABYC
system. E-9, Direct Current (DC) Electrical Systems on Boats.

2.5.6 Anode Placement 2.5.9.5 Insulated conductors shall be identified by the

color green or green with yellow stripe(s).
2.5.6.1 Anodes shall be mounted on a surface that cannot
entrap gas bubbles. 2.5.9.6 Where the cathodic bonding system is used as a
part of the lightning protection system, conductor type and
2.5.6.2 Anodes shall be located so as not to disturb the size shall be as specified in ABYC E-4, Lightning
flow of water past the propeller(s) or jet drive intake and Protection.
nozzle(s).
2.6 ELECTRICAL ISOLATION
2.5.6.3 Anodes shall be mounted so as not to disturb
water flow near intakes and discharge fittings. 2.6.1 Isolation of Galvanic Currents

2.5.6.4 Sacrificial anodes and reference electrodes shall 2.6.1.1 If installed, galvanic isolators shall be installed in
be installed to avoid areas marked for lifting slings and accordance with ABYC A-28, Galvanic Isolators.
chocks.
2.6.1.2 If installed, isolation transformers shall be
2.5.7 All metals that are to receive cathodic protection installed in accordance with ABYC E-8, Alternating
from the cathodic protection system shall have a maximum Current (AC) Electrical Systems on Boats.
resistance of one ohm to the cathodic bonding system
anode. NOTE: The electrical interconnection that occurs via
shorepower cables from the dock may result in a galvanic
NOTES: couple between the boat and dock structure or another
boat. This can lead to excessive anode loss, or corrosion
1. A resistance as high as one ohm may degrade beyond the capacity of the boat's cathodic protection
the cathodic protection system performance. system. A galvanic isolator or isolation transformer can
be used to break this couple.
2. Propeller shafts do not provide reliable
electrical continuity to the boat's cathodic bonding 2.7 SACRIFICIAL ANODES
system.
2.7.1 If installed, the mass and exposed surface area of
2.5.8 Rudderposts shall be cathodically bonded by the anode(s) used to achieve cathodic protection (e.g.,
means of a flexible conductor positioned to allow full magnesium, zinc, aluminum, etc.) shall be sufficient to
rudder movement without stressing the cathodic bonding provide continuous current output for at least the period
conductor or its connection. between inspections (see ABYC E-2 APPENDIX, E-
2.Ap.3).

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NOTES: Alternating Current (AC) Electrical Systems on Boats, and

1. Typical compositions of zinc, aluminum, and ABYC E-9, Direct Current (DC) Electrical Systems on
magnesium anodes appear in ABYC E-2 APPENDIX (see Boats.
E-2.Ap.TABLE I). Zinc anodes require zinc of high
quality with the most undesirable (critical) trace element 2.8.1.3 The controller of an impressed current cathodic
being iron. The addition of cadmium and aluminum will protection system shall cut off, or reduce impressed current
permit an increase in the tolerance for iron. Zinc anodes to a hull potential level not to exceed the maximum level in
have a natural potential approximately -1050 mV with Table I, if the lead to the reference electrode is shorted to
reference to a silver/silver chloride reference electrode in ground or broken.
seawater.
2.8.1.4 Hull anodes, reference electrodes, and other
2. The fixed potential of sacrificial anodes components that penetrate the hull below the water line
provides their basic utility, but the available current shall be designed, constructed, and installed so that they
depends upon the exposed surface and the necessary mass will not loosen or fail structurally when subjected to the
to maintain this current over a period of time. stresses and conditions normally imposed on the hull.

2.7.2 Sacrificial anodes on a shaft shall be installed so 2.8.1.5 Hull anodes shall be designed and installed to
as not to throw the shaft out of balance or restrict water prevent electrical leakage from anode electrical connections
flow to strut bearings. to internal metallic parts of the assembly so as to minimize
stray current corrosion through contact with bilge water.
NOTE: Collars applied to the propeller shaft of boats
are usually adequate to protect the propellers and shafts 2.8.1.6 Impressed current cathodic protection systems
of bronze and stainless steel. shall be used only on boats with negatively grounded or
ungrounded electrical systems unless an independent
2.7.3 Only one current path shall be provided from source of power is provided that is negatively grounded.
each anode to the cathodic bonding system.
2.8.1.7 System controllers shall be installed at least three
NOTES: feet (1m) from compasses and other magnetically sensitive
equipment. Associated wiring shall be either twisted pair or
1. Sacrificial anodes may be mounted directly on shielded when in proximity to such equipment.
the metal to be protected.
2.8.1.8 Impressed current anodes shall be separated from
2. Zinc galvanic anodes may be applied directly to the hull by an insulating barrier extending beyond the edge
aluminum, steel and non-metallic hulls without shielding. of the anode a distance in accordance with TABLE II (see
FIGURE 1).
3. Better current distribution will be obtained with
a dielectric shield between the anodes and metals to be 2.8.1.9 To prevent chemical attack of the hull material
protected providing the anode is electrically connected to and paint directly above an anode due to gas generation, the
the metal being protected. width of the dielectric shield above the anode shall be
increased. A minimum width of four inches (100mm)
2.7.4 Magnesium anodes shall not be directly should be provided (see FIGURE 1).
coupled to the surface to be protected without dielectric
shielding. 2.8.1.10 Impressed current anodes shall have the words
"DO NOT PAINT" on a visible surface when installed.
2.7.5 To prevent chemical attack of the hull
material and paint directly above an anode due to gas NOTE: Anodes of any type are ineffective if painted.
generation, the width of the dielectric shield above the
anode shall be increased. A minimum width of four inches 2.9 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF ALUMINUM
(100 mm) should be provided (see FIGURE 1). LOWER UNITS AND OTHER METALLIC
COMPONENTS MOUNTED ON NON-METALLIC
2.8 IMPRESSED CURRENT SYSTEMS HULLS

2.8.1 If installed, the impressed current cathodic 2.9.1 Aluminum lower units shall have a
protection system installation shall be in accordance with protective paint coating that is tenacious, resistant to
the following: erosion and provides a high resistance barrier between the
aluminum and water.
2.8.1.1 If impressed current cathodic protection systems
obtain power from the boat's battery system, provision shall NOTE: Aluminum is an amphoteric metal, and a
be made to maintain battery charge. negative potential of over 1200 mV can cause harmful
overprotection such as alkali corrosion of aluminum and
2.8.1.2 All electrical connections to the AC or DC possible hydrogen blistering of paint, also known as
electrical system shall be in accordance with ABYC E-8, cathodic disbondment.

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2.9.1.1 Galvanically incompatible anti-fouling coatings, 3. Boats equipped to use dockside power are
without a barrier coating, shall not be used. subject to galvanic corrosion because the boat ground is
electrically connected to the shore ground via the
2.9.2 Sterndrives, outboards, and other grounding conductor. An isolation transformer, a
metallic components shall be protected with sacrificial galvanic isolator, or polarization transformer with
anodes mounted on the aluminum lower units, or sacrificial galvanic isolator in the grounding conductor may be used
anodes mounted on the hull and connected to the cathodic to reduce this problem (see ABYC E-8, Alternating
bonding system, or an impressed current system. Current (AC) Electrical Systems on Boats, and ABYC A-
28, Galvanic Isolators).
NOTES:
4. If magnesium anodes are used in salt water, the
1. Aluminum lower units on stern drive and negative potential may exceed 1200 mV maximum
outboard engines may require cathodic protection in recommended potential and create the conditions for
addition to that supplied by the manufacturer when cathodic corrosion.
moored or used extensively in salt or brackish waters.
2.10.3 When practical, underwater fittings, propeller
2. Cathodic protection supplied by the drive shafts, propellers, and rudders fabricated of bronze, or other
manufacturer may not be sufficient to provide protection metal alloys more noble than aluminum, shall be
to additional metallic components. electrically insulated from metallic contact with the hull
and from internal metallic piping.
3. Boats equipped to use dockside power are
subject to galvanic corrosion because the boat ground is NOTE: Shafts or rudders may be cathodically protected
electrically connected to the shore ground via the separately by anodes directly attached to the metal that is
grounding conductor. An isolation transformer, a to be protected.
galvanic isolator, or polarization transformer with
galvanic isolator in the grounding conductor may be used 2.10.4 Fasteners used for connections to aluminum hulls
to reduce this problem. See ABYC E-8, Alternating shall be 300 series stainless steel.
Current (AC) Electrical Systems on Boats, and ABYC A-
28, Galvanic Isolators. 2.10.5 An aluminum hull shall be connected directly to
the engine negative terminal, and
4. Magnesium anodes should not be used in salt water
since the negative potential is 1600 to 1630 mV (beyond 2.10.5.1 the connection shall be made above the normal
1200 mV maximum recommended for aluminum). accumulation of bilge water, and

2.10 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF ALUMINUM 2.10.5.2 if a lightning protection system is installed on the
HULLS boat, this wire conductor shall not be less than the
equivalent of #6 AWG (see ABYC E-4, Lightning
2.10.1 If aluminum hulls are painted, they shall have a Protection).
protective paint coating that is tenacious, resistant to
erosion, and which provides a high resistance barrier 2.11 CATHODIC PROTECTION OF STEEL
between the aluminum and water. HULLS

NOTE: Aluminum is an amphoteric metal, and a negative 2.11.1 Steel hulls shall have a protective paint coating
potential of over 1200 mV can cause harmful that is tenacious, resistant to erosion, and which provides a
overprotection such as alkali corrosion of aluminum and high resistance barrier between the steel and the water.
possible hydrogen blistering of paint, also known as
cathodic disbondment. 2.11.2 Steel hulls shall be protected with sacrificial
anodes mounted on the hull, or sacrificial anodes mounted
2.10.2 Aluminum hulls shall be protected with on underwater gear, or an impressed current system.
sacrificial anodes mounted on the hull or underwater gear.
NOTES:
NOTES:
1. Boats equipped to use dockside AC electric
1. While impressed current systems are capable of power are subject to galvanic corrosion because the boat
providing protection to aluminum vessels, they are not ground is electrically connected to the shore ground via
generally recommended because aluminum is amphoteric. the grounding conductor. An isolation transformer, a
A failure in the impressed current system can destroy the galvanic isolator, or polarization transformer with
hull in a very short time. galvanic isolator in the grounding conductor may be used
to reduce this problem (see ABYC E-8, Alternating
2. A corrosion monitor may be installed to Current (AC) Electrical Systems on Boats, and ABYC A-
measure hull potential. 28, Galvanic Isolators).

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2. A corrosion monitor may be installed to measure 2.12 HULL POTENTIAL MONITOR

hull potential.
2.12.1 All metal hull vessels utilizing shore power shall
2.11.3 When practical, underwater fittings, have an installed hull potential meter and reference
propeller shafts, propellers, and rudders fabricated of electrode.
bronze, or other metal alloys more noble than steel, shall be
electrically insulated from metallic contact with the hull, NOTE: Hull potential meters should be considered for
and from internal metallic piping. other metal hull vessels that remain in the water for
extended periods.
NOTE: Shafts or rudders may be cathodically protected
separately by anodes directly attached to the metal that is
to be protected.

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TABLE I - GALVANIC SERIES OF METALS IN SEA WATER WITH REFERENCE TO SILVER/SILVER CHLORIDE
REFERENCE CELL [Sea water flowing at 8 to 13 ft./sec.(except as noted), temperature range 50°F (10°C) to 80°F (26.7°C)]

NOTE: Metals and metal alloys are listed in the order of their potential in flowing sea water as determined in tests conducted
by a nationally-recognized corrosion research laboratory.
(ANODIC OR LEAST NOBLE) CORROSION-POTENTIAL RANGE IN
MILLIVOLTS
Magnesium and Magnesium Alloys -1600 to –1630
Zinc -980 to –1030
Aluminum Alloys -760 to –1000
Cadmium -700 to –730
Mild Steel -600 to –710
Wrought Iron -600 to –710
Cast Iron -600 to –710
13% Chromium Stainless Steel, Type 410 (active in still water) -460 to –580
18-8 Stainless Steel, Type 304 (active in still water) -460 to –580
Ni-Resist -460 to –580
18-8, 3% Mo Stainless Steel, Type 316 (active in still water) -430 to –540
Inconel (78%Ni, 13.5%Cr, 6%Fe) (active in still water) -350 to -460
Aluminum Bronze (92% Cu, 8% Al) -310 to -420
Nibral (81.2% Cu, 4% Fe, 4.5% Ni, 9% Al, 1.3% Mg) -310 to –420
Naval Brass (60% Cu, 39% Zn) -300 to –400
Yellow Brass (65% Cu, 35% Zn) -300 to –400
Red Brass (85% Cu, 15% Zn) -300 to –400
Muntz Metal (60% Cu, 40% Zn) -300 to –400
Tin -310 to –330
Copper -300 to –570
50-50 Lead- Tin Solder -280 to –370
Admiralty Brass (71% Cu, 28% Zn, 1% Sn) -280 to –360
Aluminum Brass (76% Cu, 22% Zn, 2% Al) -280 to –360
Manganese Bronze (58.8% Cu,39%Zn,1%Sn, 1%Fe, 0.3%Mn) -270 to –340
Silicone Bronze (96% Cu Max, 0.80% Fe, 1.50%Zn, 2.00% Si, -260 to –290
0.75% Mn, 1.60% Sn)
Bronze-Composition G (88% Cu, 2% Zn, 10% Sn) -240 to –310
Bronze ASTM B62 (thru-hull)(85%Cu, 5%Pb, 5%Sn, 5%Zn) -240 to –310
Bronze Composition M (88% Cu, 3% An, 6.5% Sn, 1.5% Pb) -240 to –310
13% Chromium Stainless Steel, Type 410 (passive) -260 to –350
Copper Nickel (90% Cu, 10% Ni) -210 to –280
Copper Nickel (75% Cu, 20% Ni, 5% Zn) -190 to –250
Lead -190 to –250
Copper Nickel (70% Cu, 30% Ni) -180 to –230
Inconell (78% Ni, 13.5% Cr, 6% Fe) (passive) -140 to –170
Nickel 200 -100 to –200
18-8 Stainless Steel, Type 304 (passive) -50 to –100
Monel 400, K-500 (70% Ni, 30% Cu) -40 to –140
Stainless Steel Propeller Shaft (ASTM 630:#17 & ASTM 564: -30 to +130
# 19)
18-8 Stainless Steel, Type 316 (passive) 3% Mo 0.0 to –100
Titanium -50 to +60
Hastelloy C -30 to +80
Stainless Steel Shafting (Bar) (UNS 20910) -250 to +60
Platimium +190 to +250
Graphite +200 to +300
(CATHODIC OR MOST NOBLE)
†The range shown does not include sacrificial aluminum anodes. Aluminum alloy sacrificial anodes are available that have a
maximum corrosion potential of -1100 mV.

NOTE: The galvanic series may be used to predict whether galvanic actions are likely between two metals. Other factors
(e.g., area of the material, flow rate, composition of the electrolyte, crevices, the coupling of copper alloys with aluminum,
etc.) affect the relative corrosion rates in seawater (see E-2.Ap.5).
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TABLE II - RECOMMENDED RANGE OF CATHODIC PROTECTION BASED ON AG/AGCL REFERENCE CELL

HULL MATERIAL MILLIVOLT RANGE

Fiberglass -550 to –900
Wood -550 to –600
Aluminum -900 to –1100
Steel -800 to –1050
Non-metallic w/Aluminum Drives -900 tp -1050

TABLE III – SHIELDING OF IMPRESSED CURRENT ANODES

SHIELDING OF IMPRESSED CURRENT ANODES

Maximum Current Output of Anode Minimum Border Width of Dielectric
Material between Anode and Hull
Milliampere Inches
Below 350 1/2*(13 mm)
1500 3* (77 mm)
5000 8 (205 mm)

*The minimum shielding should be increased on metallic hulls.

FIGURE 1- DIELECTRIC SHIELDING FOR IMPRESSED CURRENT ANODE

Anode Boat hull

Border width at least 4 inches

(See E-2.8.1.9)

Insulating barrier
(dielectric shield)

E2-F1
Minimum border width of dielectric
material between anode and hull
(See Table III)

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E-2 APPENDIX

E-2.Ap.1 The information contained in this appendix is intended to provide practical procedures for the determination
of the amount of cathodic protection needed on a boat. Typical compositions of anodes are provided.

E-2.Ap.2 In general, the use of several anodes in parallel, instead of one large anode, tends to provide better
distribution of the protective current.

NOTE: The best current distribution will be obtained by remote mounting with the anode(s) positioned to be as equidistant as
possible from the metals to be protected.

E-2.Ap.3 SACRIFICIAL ANODES - MEASUREMENT AND APPLICATION

E-2.Ap.3.1 For the initial determination of the amount of sacrificial anodic material needed for protection of underwater
metal, the following procedures may be used:

E-2.Ap.3.1.1 Place the reference electrode (silver/silver chloride) in the water outside the hull near the underwater unit that
is to be protected.

E-2.Ap.3.1.2 Using a digital multimeter (DMM), measure the voltage by connecting the negative terminal of a DMM
(preferably a very high impedance type) to the reference electrode, and the positive to the unit to be protected (make sure there is
good contact with the metal).

E-2.Ap.3.1.3 Note the reading (e.g., should be -700 mV to -740 mV for aluminum die-castings relative to a silver/silver
chloride reference electrode in seawater).

E-2.Ap.3.1.4 Place the sacrificial anode(s) in the water and electrically connect the anode(s) to the metal that is to be
protected.

E-2.Ap.3.1.5 Note the reading on the DMM.

E-2.Ap.3.1.6 The sacrificial anode is working or is large enough when the voltage measured is 200 mV more negative than
the reading noted in E-2.Ap.3.1.3 (e.g., approximately -900 mV to -940 mV relative to silver/silver chloride reference electrode
for aluminum die castings).

E-2.Ap.3.2 Subsequent inspections of the anodes will determine whether there was sufficient or excessive anodic
material provided. Adjustments may be made based on the experience gained through these inspections.

E-2.Ap.4 IMPRESSED CURRENT PROTECTION - APPLICATION

E-2.Ap.4.1 Impressed current systems for pleasure and light commercial vessels are available in two general types.

E-2.Ap. 4.1.1 Type One systems are generally designed to protect sterndrives/outboards and are limited to about 250
milliamps of protective current.

E-2.Ap. 4.1.2 Type Two systems are larger and generally designed to protect the entire vessel. Current output for these
systems range to ten amps.

E-2.Ap.4.2 Impressed current cathodic protection devices are electronically controlled and should be used where
cathodic protection is needed and where it is desired to eliminate the use of, or extend the life of, sacrificial anodes.

E-2.Ap.4.3 The devices use an external voltage source and an anode with a control to adjust the amount of current in the
circuit. All the systems have automatic adjustment that senses the reference electrode voltage and automatically supplies the
right amount of current to the anode to maintain the protection required. The controllers for larger systems have adjustable set
points.

E-2.Ap.4.4 A Type Two system should include a corrosion monitor and output ammeter.

E-2.Ap.5 FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE TYPE AND DEGREE OF CATHODIC PROTECTION REQUIRED.

E-2.Ap.5.1 Water Velocity - Cathodic protection current requirements increase with water velocity past the hull. The
current requirement can be as high as 30 times that required in still water.

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E-2.Ap.5.2 Boat Usage - More frequently operated vessels require more cathodic protection than vessels infrequently
used.

E-2.Ap.5.3 Conductivity of the Water - As the conductivity increases, the rate of galvanic activity increases.

E-2.Ap.5.4 Salinity (Fresh and Seawater) - Current requirements increase with salinity but higher driving potentials are
required in fresh water.

E-2.Ap.5.5 pH of the Water - As pH decreases (acid rain lakes), the corrosion rate increases.

E-2.Ap.5.6 Deterioration of Protective Coatings - Current requirements increase as protective coatings deteriorate.

E-2.Ap.6 Factors that affect the longevity and adequacy of anodes and system equipment

E-2.Ap.6.1 Paint - Painted areas of anodes will not produce electrical current.

E-2.Ap.6.2 Loose Connections - Loose anode attachments or loose/corroded electrical connections will reduce or
eliminate electrical current flow from the anode.

E-2.Ap.6.3 Corrosion - Corrosion at the point where the anode is bolted to the structure to be protected can inhibit
electrical current flow. The use of a more noble core material in the anodes will assist in controlling this problem.

E-2.Ap.6.4 Copper alloy electrical terminations, even if plated, shall not be in direct contact with aluminum.

NOTE: The use of an intermediate stainless steel washer may be used to separate the copper terminal from the aluminum
surface.

E-2.Ap.6.5 Insufficient Weight/Surface Area - An anode that has sufficient surface area to produce the desired voltage
initially, may not have enough mass (weight) to sustain the current output for the duration of the time that the vessel remains in
the water.

E-2.Ap.6.6 Impurities - Impurities in the anode such as iron can seriously reduce their output. Anodes should not be
stored in steel bins or with other steel products. Particles of steel will adhere to the anodes forming cathodic cells on the anode
surface which reduce output current and cause the anode to self-corrode.

E-2.Ap.6.7 Improper Anode Contact - Metal foil anti-fouling systems must not come in contact with metals that are
cathodically protected. This will render the anti-fouling properties of the foil useless, drastically reduce the protective voltage,
cause rapid consumption of the anode, and lead to accelerated corrosion of normally protected metals.

E-2.Ap.6.8 Anode Composition - There are numerous anode compositions available. To insure the best performance,
customers should specify military specification anodes for zinc, aluminum, and magnesium.

E-2.Ap.TABLE I - TYPICAL COMPOSITION OF ANODES

E-2.Ap. TABLE I-A - TYPICAL COMPOSITION OF ZINC ANODES IN PERCENTAGES OR RANGE

ASTM B418
MIL-A-18001 Minimum Purity
Type I Type II
Aluminum .1 - .4 .005 max. .1 - .5 3.9 - 4.3
Cadmium .03 - .1 .003 max. .025 - .15 .002 max.
Copper - - .005 max. .1 max.
Iron .005 max. .0014 max. .005 max. .05 max.
Lead .003 max. .003 max. .006 max. .002 max.
Magnesium - - - .005 - .02
Nickel - - - .005 - .02
Silicon - - .125 max. -
Tin .001 max. .001 max. -- .001 max.
Zinc (remainder) 99.5 min 99.99 min 99.2 min 95.5 min

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E-2.Ap.TABLE I-B - TYPICAL COMPOSITION OF ALUMINUM ANODES IN PERCENTAGES OR RANGE

(B605 ALLOY)

Zinc (range) 5.0 - 6.0 %

Iron (maximum) 0.17 %
Copper (maximum) 0.02 %
Silicon (maximum) 0.10 %
Aluminum Remainder

E-2.Ap.TABLE I-C - TYPICAL COMPOSITION OF MAGNESIUM ANODE IN PERCENTAGES OR RANGE

(MIL-A-21412)

Aluminum (range) 5.0 - 7.0 %

Zinc (range) 2.0 - 4.0 %
Manganese (minimum) 0.15 %
Silicon (maximum) 0.30 %
Copper (maximum) 0.10 %
Iron (maximum) 0.003 %
Nickel (maximum) 0.003 %
Other (maximum) 0.30 %
Magnesium Remainder

E-2.Ap.TABLE II - CORRECTION FACTORS FOR REFERENCE ELECTRODES

Potential values of reference electrodes referred to Standard Hydrogen Electrode (S.H.E.), the standard to
which other more convenient references are related:

HALF-CELL POTENTIAL VOLT

1. Tenth Normal Calomel TNCE +0.333

2. Copper-Copper Sulfate Cu/CuSO4 +0.316
3. Normal Calomel NCE +0.280
4. Saturated Calomel SCE +0.241
5. Silver/Silver Chloride Ag/AgCl +0.222
6. Standard Hydrogen Electrode S.H.E. 0.000
7. Zinc Zn -0.778

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E-2.Ap.TABLE II - CORRECTION FACTORS FOR REFERENCE ELECTRODES (cont.)

REFERENCE/SENSING ELECTRODES POTENTIAL IN SEAWATER COMPARED TO

Cu/CuSO4 Ag/AgCl SCE S.H.E. Zn

+0.2 +0.3 +0.28 +0.52 +1.3
+0.1 +0.2 +0.18 +0.42 +1.2
0.0 +0.1 +0.08 +0.32 +1.1
-0.1 0.0 -0.02 +0.222 +1.0
-0.2 -0.1 -0.12 +0.12 +0.9
-0.3 -0.2 -0.22 +0.02 +0.8
-0.4 -0.3 -0.32 -0.08 +0.7
-0.5 -0.4 -0.42 -0.18 +0.6
-0.6 -0.5 -0.52 -0.28 +0.5
-0.7 -0.6 -0.62 -0.38 +0.4
-0.8 -0.7 -0.72 -0.48 +0.3
-0.9 -0.8 -0.82 -0.58 +0.2
-1.0 -0.9 -0.92 -0.68 +0.1
-1.1 -1.0 -1.02 -0.78 0.0
-1.2 -1.1 -1.12 -0.88 -0.1
-1.3 -1.2 -1.22 -0.98 -0.2
-1.4 -1.3 -1.32 -1.08 -0.3
-1.5 -1.4 -1.42 -1.18 -0.4
-1.6 -1.5 -1.52 -1.28 -0.5
-1.7 -1.6 -1.62 -1.38 -0.6
-1.8 -1.7 -1.72 -1.48 -0.7
-1.9 -1.8 -1.82 -1.58 -0.8
-2.0 -1.9 -1.92 -1.68 -0.9
-2.1 -2.0 -2.02 -1.78 -1.0

Converting Half-Cell Values (Example)

-0.700 volts Ag/AgC1
+0.222 conversion factor
- 0.478 volts S.H.E.

* * * * *
Origin and Development of ABYC E-2, Cathodic Protection.

ABYC first published E-2 in 1965 with updates in 1971, 1973, 1981 and 1996. The July 2001 update is the work of the
Electrical Project Technical Committee.

* * * * *

ABYC technical board rules provide that all reports, including standards and technical information reports, are advisory only.
Their use is entirely voluntary. They are believed to represent, as of the date of publication, the consensus of knowledgeable
persons, currently active in the field of small craft, on performance objectives that contribute to small boat safety.

The American Boat & Yacht Council assumes no responsibility whatsoever for the use of, or failure to use, standards or
technical information reports promulgated by it, their adaptation to any processes of a user, or any consequences flowing
therefrom.

Prospective users of the standards and technical information reports are responsible for protecting themselves against liability for
infringement of patents.

The American Boat & Yacht Council standards and technical information reports are guides to achieving a specific level of
design or performance, and are not intended to preclude attainment of desired results by other means.

 2001 American Boat & Yacht Council, Inc.

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