The product
TRICLAD^® is the trade name of Merrem & la Porte for aluminium/steel transition joints. In generic terms the product is usually referred to as structural transition joint (STJ). It's cross section consist of an explosion bonded composite of seawater resistant aluminium alloy and C-steel and is usually applied in the form of strips or pads when welding together aluminium and steel structures in ship-and off shore construction.

What are the advantages of using TRICLAD^® as opposed to “traditional” methods of joining?

TRICLAD^®

TRADITIONAL

1  Permanent, maintenance free, "fit and forget".

1  Generally require use of bolts or rivets , plus gaskets. Can work loose, due to flexing of the hull, creating gaps in which corrosion develops.
Rivet or bolt needs to be insulated from aluminium.

2  Can be installed by one operative.

2  Generally, two operatives necessary.

3  Continuous joint, even stress distribution.

3  Rivets/bolts give uneven stress.

4  Rigorously tested approved product.

4  Difficult to assess quality of joint.

5  Watertight. Any corrosion self extinguishing.

5  Tend to leak.