Marine Metal Corrosion, by D.

Wesley Fowler Page 7 of 8

Usually, aluminum will pit if it is exposed over the long term to air and salt or fresh water. It can also crevice or stress corrode (as explained in paragraphs before) but the real problem with aluminum corrosion arises when it is placed in contact with another more noble metal while in the presence of an electrolyte. Because of where aluminum ranks on the Galvanic Scale (see page 2), it will likely be the anodic metal if it is coupled with another metal. An example of this can be seen regularly on aluminum masts or booms that have had low-grade stainless steel fasteners installed in them for cleats or other rigging attachments. Usually a small area of corrosion will form where these fasteners penetrate the mast or boom aluminum sections. This is best eliminated by using fasteners that are comprised of monel or aluminum. There is a potentially dangerous situation that mariners should be particularly aware of concerning the corrosion of aluminum fuel tanks, especially when they are used in a gasoline system. Many tank manufacturers will, either through ignorance or neglect, install brass valves and fittings directly into the fuel tank without a noncorrosive barrier to separate the two metals. Galvanically, aluminum and brass react to each other very strongly, leading the tank to eventually corrode, thereby creating the very dangerous potential for fuel to leak. However, brass fittings can safely be used in these types of applications if they are separated from contact with the aluminum tank by use of a stainless steel insert. Aluminum tanks are also frequently installed incorrectly in some small boats by manufacturers that do not follow the Coast Guard Fuel System Standard or American Boat and Yacht Council recommendations for fuel tank installations. For the sake of saving space in these small fishing boats, manufacturers will install a tank below the weather deck, fill the space around the tank with insulation material, and then provide little, if any drainage avenues to remove water/moisture from the tank compartment. As previously stated, salt water will corrode aluminum, so it is important that all tanks be installed such that water cannot be entrapped against any tank surface and so that all surfaces can be drained quickly. There are some methods that are used in the manufacture of aluminum parts such as masts, booms, etc., that help stifle corrosion, such as anodizing. Aluminum can also be painted by using special paints, as long as they do not contain mercury, copper, or lead, as these can cause galvanic corrosion. Monel Monel is probably the best metal that can be chosen for use in the marine industry. This alloy ranks fairly high on the Galvanic Scale and is comprised of two-thirds nickel and one-third copper. It possesses high tensile strength (slightly less than 300 series stainless steels), is very ductile, and it is highly resistant to corrosion from atmospheric and sea water exposure. One of monel's best qualities is that it is most corrosion resistant in moving sea water. There are a variety of parts that are comprised of monel for marine use such as annular-threaded nails, screws, nuts,