Concerns about possible galvanic/crevice effects between graphite/PTFE composite type packing and stainless steel have been addressed. Natural seawater testing of simulated boat shaft/stuffing box assemblies
revealed little difference in the overall crevice corrosion behavior of UNS S31603 when in contact with a graphite/PTFE composite or flax fiber type packing. While periodic rotation of the shaft showed some beneficial
effect, the use of sacrificial zinc anodes was almost fially effective in preventing attack in 60-day tests. Keywords: crevice corrosion, galvanic effects, stainless steel, boat shaft, graphite, packing, seawater