H.M.C.S. “New Liskeard” was drydocked May 12, 1950, eleven months after magnesium anodes were fitted to each bilge keel. No corrosion was observed on the underwater hull except in a few re-entrant places. The general condition of the underwater paint was fair and the ship was relatively free from fouling growth. The current required for protection varied between 20 and 35 amperes, depending on the conditions under which the ship operated. The consumption of magnesium was 435 lb. for the 11-month period.
The results show that it is possible and practical to use magnesium anodes to protect cathodically an active ship in sea water and that the measurement of the “hull potential” is an effective criterion as to how much current should be applied at a given time. The possibility of lengthening the period between dry-dockings of active ships from one year to two years is indicated.
