Data sheets of Magnesium bar

1. What is magnesium bar

Standard water heaters are equipped with the magnesium anode rods (identifiable by
weld bead on the plug), and they work the best where water is not hard (softer). If the
water is hard, magnesium anode rod in hot water heater do not last very long, usually
couple of years. Magnesium anodes are used as they corrode at a faster rate than the iron

Magnesium Bar for the solar water heater system,for Magnesium is a chemical
element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. Its common oxidation number is +2. It
is an alkaline earth metal and the eighth most abundant element in the Earth's crust and
ninth in the known universe as a whole. Magnesium is the fourth most common element in
the Earth as a whole (behind iron, oxygen and silicon), making up 13% of the planet's
mass and a large fraction of the planet's mantle. The relative abundance of magnesium is
related to the fact that it easily builds up insupernova stars from a sequential addition of
three helium nuclei to carbon (which in turn is made from three helium nuclei). Due to
magnesium ion's high solubility in water, it is the third most abundant element dissolved
in seawater.

Most hot water heaters are equipped with one or more anode rods. Anode service
depends on the water conductivity as the rod deteriorates during the time. This is why it is
important to maintain it, to keep the tank in operating condition. Depleted anode rod does
not affect the water taste or color but the regular inspection and replacement can extend
the life of the heater.

2.How does the water heater anode rod work?

Depends on the water hardness, its chemical structure and hot water usage, Heater tanks
are typically constructed of steel. Since metal tank carries water, it has to be protected
against the aggressive water action. There are two ways how to defend the tank from the
rust: with the anode rods and tank lining.

Inner tank surface is covered with glass or porcelain lining, but complete coverage is
sometimes neglected due to manufacturing imperfection or damaged (cracks) as the
result of handling and transportation.
On the other side, potable water contains elements like oxygen, calcium, magnesium, is
heated inside the tank.

These ingredients are adding water the ability to be conductive or electrolytic, and to allow
the electricity to flow through the water and from one metal (anode) to another (cathode).
Changing the water structure or type of material (metal in this case), the amount of
electricity can be controlled.

Between anode and cathode, two metal surfaces, a low resistance electrical circuit is
created, where water acts as a medium, providing the cathodic protection to the inside
surface of the tank. This is protective current that keeps metallic ions at the cathodic
surface (metal tank) from corroding.

If tank material is anodic than the rapid failure might occur.

As the heater tank is cathode, in order to slow down the corrosion, manufacturers are
adding another metal element, water heater anode rod. The rod is made with a higher
current potential than other metal elements in the heater, to allow galvanic current to flow
from the rod.

Water heater anodes are sending electrons to the metal tank and release positive
hydrogen and metal ions to the water. During such process the anode rod starts depleting,
sacrifices itself to protect tank and extend its life.

This is the reason why it is called sacrificial rod or sacrificial anode.

3. Anode Rod Replacement and Installation

Sacrificial anode rod life depends on the quality of the water, tank use and its quality. They
can last about five years or longer, but recommendation is to remove it every two to three
years for inspection. Be careful when using water softeners for sediment problem as it is
exceedingly corrosive and the anode rods dissolve faster while reducing heater life.

Water heater anodes are screwed in to the top of the heater with a 3/4" hex head screw.
For standard products, with warranty up to 6 years you will see one element, but for
heaters with longer warranties don't be surprised if you see more than two.

Note: Hex head can be visible or hidden. If it is hidden it is usually under the plastic cover
on the top.

The best time for water heater anode rod replacement is when the steel core is exposed
more than 6" either from the bottom or the top; when the middle of the rod is exposed or if
diameter is less than half the original size.

Use these steps to replace or remove the water heater anode rod:

Shut off the power to the heater.

Turn the cold water supply off.

Recommendation is to drain out few gallons from the drain valve at the bottom of the
heater.

Drain the heater using the garden hose and route to the open drain. Open a nearby hot
water tap to vent heater for draining. Drain to the point below the outlet connection nipple.

Close drain spigot and remove hose.

Remove the water heater anode rod using the appropriate tool.

Removing a water heater anode rod is a simple do-it-yourself home project, where you
can use a ratchet wrench to unscrew the old and screw in a new anode rod. Be sure to
use Teflon tape on the fitting threads, so it can seal tightly. If only checking, be sure to
clean the calcium-carbonate build-up.
4. Specifications and installation from MICOE factory

No. Item Description Picture

1 Material Magnesium alloy

2 Size Length:24.8cm (with thread)

Diameter:2cm
Thread: 3/4’’ copper
3 Installation 1.Weld 3/4’’ male pipe on the tank
2.Put seal tape on copper connector
3.Put the Mg bar into male pipe

4 Replaceme 1.Shut off the power to the heater.

nt 2.Turn the cold water supply off.
3.Remove the plastic cover on the
outer tank
4 Find the thread
5 Unscrew the thread with new one
6 About 2~3 year to replace new
one, it depends on water condition

Other photos,