Galvanizing

Galvanizing is a process that protects metal from corrosion. It works by coating metal with zinc to stop any rusting or corroding shielding the metal from its environment. Any water or moisture in the air will not be able to damage the metal underneath the protective zinc coating.

The history of galvanizing started in 1836, Sorel in France took out the first patent for the process of coating steel by cleaning it, then dipping it in steel, he came up with the process and name of Galvanizing.

Hot-dip galvanizing is one of the most common processes of galvanizing, it is done by immersing the product in zinc, which will then produce a corrosion-resistant covering on to the metal. It is done so by causing a metallurgical reaction between the metal and zinc.

The other type of galvanizing is known as electroplate, this is done by putting a steel surface and applying a thin coating using an electrical current. Again, this will stop the metal from rusting or corroding.

Galvanizing is the most environmentally friendly process available; it has many sustainable features. It provides maintenance-free longevity, Zinc and steel are 100% recyclable and are a renewable building material.

Galvanizing is better than simply painting the metal because the paint is softer and not as thick (although the thickness can vary) Paint can be susceptible to scratches and chips which will then expose the metal to corrosion.

 

Written By Keith