Corrosion Protection Guidelines for Aluminum Hulls

Abstract

Marine aluminum alloys are used in boat hulls and structures because of their corrosion resistance, strength, weldability, light weight, and ease of fabrication. Years of successful service of a wide variety of vessels have proven aluminum's suitability. However, in order to take maximum advantage of the metal's inherent resistance to corrosion, consideration should be given to the details of a vessel's design, fabrication, and operation in order to optimize its performance. This paper provides the designer, builder, and operator with some guidelines. The complexity of these subjects makes it necessary to generalize. The information is applicable to a range of small and medium-size craft, approximately 30 to 120 ft, but not to any specific type or size of hull. Larger craft with aluminum hulls or deckhouses and smaller riveted craft may require individual consideration beyond the scope of this document.