What makes galvanized steel

Although hot-dip galvanizing has been utilized to protect steel for generations, the galvanizing process continues to evolve with new technologies and creative chemistries. The three main steps in the hot-dip galvanizing process are surface preparation, galvanizing, and post-treatment, each of which will be discussed in detail.

The process is inherently simple, which is a distinct advantage over other corrosion protection methods. Figure 2 shows a series of steel structures with visible evidence of corrosion. The next option is to protect the steel with a physical barrier such as paint or a coating — this is what galvanizing does best.

The liquid zinc bonds to the iron in the steel forming a protective layer on both sides of the sheet. The steel sheet can then be spun into a finished part because the zinc coating does not flake or peeling off during the metal spinning process. The finished part resists corrosion without any additional or secondary painting or coating, making galvanized spinnings the most economical process for protecting steel from corrosion.

For projects with cosmetic applications Wenzel also offers a galvannealed option. Galvannealed steel is very similar to galvanized except that it comes pre-treated with primer — making the spun parts very easy to paint or coat, adding color and an extra level of corrosion protection. Please fill out the form to let Wenzel Metal Spinning assist you with any questions about the design of your part, our capabilities, or to find out how we can help you reduce the cost of your current metal spinning.

The metallic parts that are to be galvanized are put inside of a closed, rotating drum along with zinc powder, and sometimes a filler like sand. The drum is then superheated to C. At temperatures above C, zinc turns into a vapor — and this vapor penetrates the metal turning inside of the drum. This is probably how many small parts around your home, like screws or nuts and bolts, have been galvanized. Galvanized steel touts numerous measurable benefits, including the following:.

Moreover, galvanizing is actually cheaper than many other protective steel coatings. Low-maintenance: Steel that lacks a protective coating requires more maintenance to upkeep the appearance and structural safety of the product.

Long Lasting: Galvanized steel coatings can have a life expectancy of up to 50 years and can withstand urban and coastal exposure. Unparalleled Protection: Every inch of galvanized steel is protected—this includes sharp edges and those hard-to-reach crevices. Fast: The process of galvanizing is fast and easy.

In fact, a full protective coat can be applied in just a few minutes. The bodies of cars and many bicycles are made from galvanized metals. Some drinking water pipes are still made from galvanized steel.