New strategies help ship crews fight anchor chain corrosion
Preventing corrosion in the marine environment is a perennial challenge (Source: Adobe Stock)
Cortec has released a set of practical tips to help vessel operators and crews tackle the persistent issue of anchor chain corrosion – an inevitable challenge in the harsh marine environment.
Anchor chains, often coated with paint or galvanisation, can degrade over time due to salt exposure and mechanical wear. Cleaning is a critical first step before recoating or storing rusty chains. Cortec recommends soaking chains in VpCI-422, a bio-based rust remover, or EcoClean Scale and Rust Remover HP, a heavy-duty alternative to traditional acids. Once rust is removed, chains should be rinsed with fresh water or a VpCI-41x alkaline cleaner to prevent flash rust.
For long-term storage, chains can be coated with CorShield VpCI-369, a wet film corrosion inhibitor designed to protect during periods of inactivity such as drydocking.
Cortec also proposes turning the chain locker into a passive protection zone. This can be achieved by placing VpCI-308 pouches inside the enclosed locker. Each pouch protects up to 1m³ by releasing corrosion-inhibiting vapours that form a protective molecular layer on metal surfaces.
With corrosion posing a continuous risk to vessel safety and equipment longevity, Cortec continues to develop chemical solutions to mitigate deterioration in critical shipboard systems.
