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Electrolytic corrosion of dome

2004

I am currently installing 316 S/S sheeting over a 6 metre diameter (18ft) dome, constructed of 50x50 (2 in x 2 in) galvanized R.H.S. framing,will be using silicone between sheeting & frame as a non-conductive barrier to minimize problems with ELECTROLYTIC CORROSION. My query is, what material would be best for the fixings (will be using 4.8 mm (3/16 in) rivets), would monel (nickel/copper) be a better choice than S/S or is there another alternative.

Jeff Carter
Sheetmetal Worker - Pambula, New South Wales, Australia

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Jeff,

Can't answer your rivet question. The use of Silicon as a sealant is probably not a good idea. Silicon contains acetic acid [on eBay or Amazon] - released as it cures. This will positively encourage any form of bimetallic corrosion.

Jon Holdsworth
- London, UK
2004