What is galvanised Steel?

Galvanizing or galvanising of steel, is a process of adding zinc coating to steel or iron to offer protection especially from rusting. Generally done in a steel processing centre, galvanizing can be done by various methods, however, hot dip galvanizing  is the most popular and tried and tested  method of it all.

How is galvanised steel produced?

• The steel is cleaned, in a degreasing solution
• After cleaning, the steel undergoes the pickling process- lowering the steel into a cat of diluted hot sulphuric acid
• The steel then goes through the fluxing process (a process in galvanizing in which the surfaces are prepared by applying a layer of saline coating that helps in the Iron- Zinc bonding). The fluxing process is done in an aqueous solution (typically zinc- ammonium chloride)
• After the fluxing process, the steel is galvanized through the immersion in a vat of molten zinc
• The steel is inspected for consistency and a thorough coating

Benefits of steel coating:

• Less Maintainence: The galvanized steel provides superior resistance to abrasion and water. The galvanized coating guarantees that it never shrink or crack.
• Lowest Long Term Cost: Galvanized steel lasts longer and has less maintenance. Although the initial cost of galvanising is more than other coatings, it is profitable in the long run as they are low maintenance.
• Protection: When the steel is galvanized, it reaches all the parts of the steel evenly, which means it prevents from rusting and corroding. Moreover, zinc coating helps in preventing flux, inclusions, black spots, pimples rust strains, bulky white deposits.
• Resistance to mechanical damage: Apart from being rust and corrosion free, galvanized steel is also strong. It has an amazing resistance to mechanical damage. Hence, it is one of the most preferred type of steel.
• Easily Inspected: Hot dip galvanized steel can be inspected easily, with the simple overlook with the naked eye. Easy techniques like destructive thickness testing methods can be used.

Uses:

• Building frames
• Duct work
• Fences
• Ladders
• Staircases
• Support Beams
• Nails, nuts and bolts

Electronics:

• Computer casings
• Precision Instruments