Aluminium or zinc anodes in salt water environments，Which is better? Of course,both will work. The anode quality is important. Whether you choose zinc or aluminium, the grade and the composition are key to the effectiveness of the anode. While anodes may appear to be fairly simple pieces of metal, they are actually a result of sophisticated anti-corrosion engineering. Yinghai anode alloys complies with DNV GL RP-B401.  

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Aluminium, however has many benefits over zinc.  

Advantages of aluminium anodes

Weight: Aluminium is significantly lighter than zinc, by a factor of 2.5. Al anodes are lighter to ship and to fit.

Driving voltage: Aluminium anodes has a relatively high driving voltage. This means that it provides better distribution of the current, compared with zinc.

Capacity: The electrochemical capacity is more than 3 times higher than of the same mass of zinc (you can protect more with less).

Environment: Aluminium anodes carry a better environmental footprint than zinc anodes. Aluminium anode alloys do not contain cadmium, which is harmful to the marine population.

Cost: Aluminium anodes are less cheaper, what’ more, taking into account the significantly reduced weight requirement compared with zinc. 

Advantages of zinc anodes

Availability: Traditionally used by the maritime industry, hence zinc anodes are widely available.

Geometry: Zinc anodes can be produced in rather complex geometry, as opposed to aluminium. This is particularly important for slender designs, such as rope guard anode rings.

No restrictions for use in tanks: Zinc anodes are not subject to the same class restrictions as aluminium for use in tanks with possible explosive atmosphere.

The anode surface corrodes more evenly: Zinc anodes tend to dissolve more evenly and completely; while typical aluminium anodes erode unevenly with visible “craters”.