Electronics play a critical role in the marine environment—facilitating navigation and communication and controlling radar, autopilot, and engine room systems. At the same time, they face the ongoing threat of corrosion from damp, high chloride sea air, which can creep in and damage printed circuit boards (PCBs) and various metal contacts with corrosion. Given the integral nature of marine electronics, corrosion-related failures can be both expensive and dangerous. Yet with nearly five decades of corrosion control experience, Cortec® Corporation is ready to throw mariners a “life ring” with these simple tips for corrosion mitigation.
Can Corroded Electronics Be Cleaned?
Yes, in many cases, PCBs and other electronics that have started to corrode can be cleaned off with a light spray of ElectriCorr™ VpCI®-
238. This dual cleaner/protector loosens corrosion products, making it easier to wipe them away. If the damage is not too deep, electronics may be returned to service instead of requiring costly replacements. This was the case for one marine electronics servicing company that was able to restore and reinstall corroded electronic pieces after using ElectriCorr™ VpCI®-238 to effectively wash corrosion off the circuit boards.*
How Can I Prevent Marine Electronics Corrosion?
ElectriCorr™ VpCI®-238 and its sister anti-corrosion spray, ElectriCorr™ VpCI®-239, can also be sprayed on electronics and left to dry as a protective coating against further corrosion. ElectriCorr™ VpCI®-238 may be used in closed compartments while ElectriCorr™ VpCI®-239 offers a more durable coating for outdoor, vented areas. Electronics/electricals can further be fortified for corrosion resistance by placing a VpCI®-101 Device or VpCI®-105/111 emitter inside control panels and other electrical enclosures to emit corrosion inhibiting vapors.
