What it is and How to prevent it

Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metallic materials come into electrochemical contact in the presence of an electrolyte, such as atmospheric humidity or corrosive liquids.
This contact creates an electric current flow that leads to accelerated corrosion of the less noble metal, known as the anode, while the more noble metal, called the cathode, remains relatively intact.

Causes and Effects

Galvanic corrosion happens when metals have a significant galvanic potential difference.
This phenomenon can cause structural and functional damage, reducing the durability and reliability of metallic components like bolts, joints, and profiles.
For instance, the combined use of galvanized carbon steel and stainless steel can result in severe corrosion of the galvanized elements due to the higher nobility of stainless steel.

Prevention

To prevent galvanic corrosion, it is essential to adopt the following practices:

  • Material Selection: Use materials compatible with a low galvanic potential or protective coatings to reduce the risk of galvanic corrosion.
  • Electrical Isolation: If possible, electrically isolate dissimilar metals to interrupt the flow of electrochemical current.
  • Use of Protective Coatings: Apply protective coatings like paints or zinc coatings to shield metals from exposure to corrosive electrolytes.
  • Monitoring and Maintenance: Regularly monitor exposed metallic surfaces and take timely corrective actions to prevent or limit galvanic corrosion.

Our Solution

We understand the importance of protecting your metallic components from galvanic corrosion. We offer a range of solutions and materials designed to withstand corrosion and prolong the lifespan of your products.
Based on our experience and conducted tests, we can anticipate which material combinations are susceptible to galvanic corrosion and provide the most suitable solutions.
For example, for ZnMg ZM310 profiles, we recommend using Geomet accessories, while for stainless steel profiles, we suggest using stainless steel accessories.


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