What is Galvanic Action and Corrosion?

By ATAS International. 

Inform yourself on these chemical processes that can occur between two conductive metals.  

To prevent accelerated corrosion, it is important to keep dissimilar metals insulated from each other. It is also wise to ensure metal is completely separated from water or wet conditions as water, especially salt water, will create a conductive path between two metals and accelerate what is known as galvanic action. 

Galvanic action 

Galvanic action occurs when two electrochemically dissimilar metals are in contact and a conductive path allows electrons and ions to move from one metal to the other creating an electrical current. This current is called “galvanism.” 

Galvanic corrosion 

Galvanic corrosion (also called dissimilar metal corrosion, bimetallic corrosion, electrolytic corrosion or wrongly electrolysis) refers to corrosion damage induced when two dissimilar materials are coupled in a corrosive electrolyte such as a saltwater or acidic solution. 

Result 

The less noble (anodic) metal experiences accelerated corrosion while the other, more noble (cathodic) metal remains galvanically protected. 

Learn more about ATAS International in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit www.atas.com.   

Original article source: ATAS International 

About ATAS International 

For over 55 years, ATAS International, Inc. has built a sturdy reputation for offering quality products made by skilled and knowledgeable workers. This family-owned business began as a siding and trim installer, Aluminum Trim And Shapes, founded by Jacobus “Jack” P. Bus in his basement in Rochester, New York. Since then, the business has grown into an industry leading manufacturer of metal panels for the building envelope, with several locations across the United States and serving customers around the globe.   

Today, ATAS continues to lead the industry with innovations in the manufacturing of metal walls, metal roof systems, ceilings, perimeter edge metal, accessories and more. Many of the company’s operations have received ISO certifications as well as an International Quality System Standard certification. These certifications help ATAS to continue providing consistently high-quality products to customers on a daily basis.