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Galvanic corrosion occurs when metals with different electrochemical potentials are connected in an electrolyte. The difference in their electrode potentials creates a galvanic cell, causing one metal to sacrifice itself (anodic metal) and protect the other (cathodic metal).
For metals like aluminium, which are prone to galvanic corrosion, prevention is key:
By taking these steps, industries can avoid the costly consequences of corrosion while ensuring the safety and longevity of their structures.
Before committing to materials, industries often conduct galvanic corrosion tests to simulate real-world conditions. These tests reveal how metals will behave in specific environments, helping engineers select the right combinations or plan for protective measures.
Tests can also uncover hidden risks, such as how subtle environmental changes (like increased salinity) might accelerate corrosion over time. Armed with this knowledge, industries can make informed decisions and avoid costly failures.
By investing time in conducting tests to predict galvanic corrosion before starting your project, you can save both money and time. For underground projects, the most significant expense is often not the repair itself but the work required to reopen the excavation. Traffic must be rerouted, operations may need to pause, and additional resources are consumed.
By ensuring in advance that galvanic corrosion cannot occur, you can confidently complete your project and close the excavation, knowing it will remain secure for years to come.
The good news? Galvanic corrosion is preventable. One of the most effective strategies is cathodic protection (CP), which alters the natural electrochemical reaction to stop corrosion in its tracks.
There are two primary types of CP systems:
Sacrificial Anodes: Active metals like zinc or aluminium are used as “sacrificial” materials to corrode in place of the structure.
Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP): A more advanced system that uses an external power source to protect large structures like pipelines, ship hulls, and offshore platforms.
ICCP systems are especially effective because they don’t rely on sacrificial materials, reducing the need for frequent replacement. By creating a controlled electric current, ICCP systems neutralize the natural galvanic reaction and protect the structure for decades.
Contact us for more information about galvanic corrosion, what can be done to prevent it, or to explore real-world case studies where we’ve successfully mitigated and resolved galvanic corrosion issues. Let us help you protect your projects and assets.
