Optimization of Zinc Content in Fin Alloys on Cathodic Protection for Galvanic-Coupled Fin-Tube Aluminum Heat Exchanger
摘要
This study investigated the optimization of zinc content in fin alloys to enhance the lifespan of aluminum fin-tube heat exchangers by simultaneously preventing tube corrosion and minimizing fin consumption. The sacrificial anode cathodic protection of the fin alloys was evaluated based on the zinc content (0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 wt.%), considering the corrosion potential and galvanic corrosion current. The fin alloy with 0.5 wt.% Zn did not provide sufficient protection for the tube. However, as the zinc content increased (1.5 and 2.5 wt.%), the sacrificial anode cathodic protection effect was enhanced, effectively protecting the tube. However, the fin alloy containing 2.5 wt.% zinc exhibited a higher fin consumption rate compared to the fin alloy with 1.5 wt.% zinc. Therefore, fin alloys with 1.5 wt.% zinc are recommended to enhance the lifespan of aluminum fin-tube heat exchangers by effectively balancing tube protection and fin durability.