Galvanic Corrosion

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In 1981 the Statue of Liberty was in a severe state of degradation. The outside copper skin of the statue was so corroded that some spots were as thin as a sheet of paper. What caused this severe breakdown of lady liberty was a phenomenon known as galvanic corrosion. And it can also be a threat to your swimming pool. Especially Salt Water Generator pools. So, what causes this corrosion in swimming pools and what can you do to fix and prevent it?
Galvanic corrosion can occur in standard swimming pools when levels of dissolved solids know as TDS build up to a very high level. As dissolved solids build up, the electrical conductivity of the water increases. The occurrence of a high mineral solution coupled with increased electrical capacity is known as Electrolysis. (this statement seems to be missing something) Swimming pools with high TDS that are near any strong electrical potential such as transformers or high tension wires can have metals within the pool begin to corrode and turn black. The simple solution to solving corrosion in these pools is to drain and dilute the high mineral content from the pool. However, this may not always be an option especially in times of drought. In these cases the addition of a simple zinc anode such as this can help. Also, using a good metal sequestering product like Hasa’s Super Stain Out will help to prevent staining from the metals.
In pools utilizing a salt water chlorine generator, galvanic corrosion can be a very real threat. Salt pools incorporate a good level of salt in the water usually 3500- 4500 ppm. This causes a very high dissolved solids level. Also, a salt water generator has ruthenium coated cells where an electrical charge is sent to convert salt into chlorine. (you had titanium, I believe it is ruthenium but you may need to comfirm) Most pools have lights and the light ring is usually brass or copper. Also, if there is a heater the heat exchanger is often copper. So, what you have is a very high mineral solution with two differing metals and a low current of electricity. This is the perfect storm for galvanic corrosion.
In this scenario because the ruthenium is a very noble metal, the copper in the pool becomes what is known as a sacrificial anode. Basically, that means it will corrode first. This will lead to metal stains and debris in the pool. Eventually it will lead to the destruction of any solid copper parts. What can be done to stop the destruction from galvanic corrosion in a salt pool? Again, the use of a simple zinc anode like this inserted into the skimmer or installed into the plumbing will save the pool. The reason for this is because the zinc becomes the sacrificial anode and corrodes with out causing any staining or detriment to the pool. Using a good metal sequesterant like Hasa super Stain- out is ideal for salt pools as well to keep all metals from staining the pool.
This is Terry with HASA if you have any questions about galvanic corrosion, metal stains or any other water chemistry please feel free to contact us at www. Hasa.com or check us out on TH-cam, Facebook and LinkedIN.