What happens to bronze alloy fittings exposed to stray currents?

When bronze alloy fittings are exposed to stray currents, the phenomenon known as galvanic corrosion occurs, which primarily affects the zinc component within the alloy. Bronze is typically a copper alloy that may contain zinc, and when subjected to electrical currents in the presence of an electrolyte (such as water), zinc is prone to anodic dissolution.

The stray currents effectively cause the zinc to corrode more rapidly than copper, leading to selective leaching. As a result, the zinc material is removed over time, leaving behind a copper-rich alloy. This process can weaken the structural integrity of the fitting and result in pitting or degradation of the material, which can ultimately compromise its functionality.

Therefore, the correct interpretation of the effects of stray currents on bronze alloy fittings aligns with the idea that they lose zinc over time, leaving primarily copper, which can lead to challenges in both durability and strength.