Technical Service Bulletin: Anode Rods – Potential Action Required
ANODE ROD STEEL CORE
ANODE ROD DEBRIS/SLOUGH
WHITE FLUFF ON TANK BOTTOM
Figure 9: White Fluff and Anode Rod Debris on Tank Bottom. Picture taken from manway access after unit was drained
ADDRESSING SLUDGE
If sludge is noticed on the tank surfaces during the siphoning/cleaning process, the sludge should be cleaned in the same manner as the white fluff. Sludge can form as the result of any number of factors, but is unrelated to the anode rod issue. However, we are taking this opportunity to reinforce that sludge, if present, should also be removed to minimize the potential for under deposit corrosion.
FURTHER CORRECTIVE ACTION:
Dectra is working diligently to find a permanent solution to short anode rod life and take further corrective action if needed. It appears that the anode rod supplier switched to sourcing its rods from overseas. Therefore, Dectra is in the process of working directly with a United States magnesium rod producer, who should be able to supply rods that meet strict ASTM specifications. Anode rods have been used successfully in GARN units for nearly 30 years, and only recently has early degradation been observed.
Thank you for your understanding in this matter,
The GARN team.
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