Bronze Intake Strainer Question

[sgeary]

We hauled out our 2015 RT31CB today for bottom paint. Both the main engine intake strainer (port side) and the air conditioner intake strainer (starboard side) were missing one or two of the guards between the slots. To the best of my knowledge, we have not hit anything. Anodes are in good shape and disappearing at a normal rate and replaced regularly. Does 10 year old bronze get weaker with age? Does this look like electrolysis due to a lack of bonding? Your thoughts are appreciated. Both strainers are going to be replaced, obviously.

 

[Newf]

I would say no. IMO if it was due to electrolysis the other "ribs" would be in poor condition. In the Air Con photo the bent rib would be an indication of being struck. At speed it would not take much of an impact to damage these. I think you would see substantial thinning of the other ribs/bars if electrolysis were the main culprit.