Ever wondered why steel goes through the process of galvanization? This is a popular method done to improve the quality of steel and iron, but what exactly is it and how does it work? Keep reading to find out.
What Is Galvanizing?
What's worse than rusted steel or iron? For some people, nothing is. Galvanizing is the process in which steel or iron is coated with zinc to prevent rusting. Not only does this layer of zinc protect against rust, but galvanized steel is more durable and has corrosion protection.
How Is Something Galvanized?
To get this layer of zinc, one must use hot dip galvanizing equipment. This makes the process of galvanization easy, as it simply is a molten pool of zinc ready to be dipped in.
For most galvanization processes, this is how it works. First, the steel must be cleaned, usually with a degreasing solution. Once clean, the steel is "pickled" which means that it gets covered in hot, sulfuric acid. Once accomplished, the steel is put into an aqueous solution and finally galvanized by being put into a vat of molten zinc. After a final inspection, the metal is good to go.
Advantages of Galvanizing
There are obvious benefits of galvanizing metal, such as preventing rust and improving durability. However, there are a few more thanks to the layer of zinc added onto the steel or iron. Galvanizing has a lower initial cost than other treated steels. And once the steel is galvanized, no additional preparations are needed.
Due to the durability, galvanized steel has a long life span. In environments with moderate weather conditions, this kind of steel can last up to 50 years.
With so many benefits of galvanized metal, it makes sense why this is a popular option for steel. Depending on the method you prefer, the metal you use can be galvanized and ready to use.
The post The Guide To Galvanizing appeared first on Civil Engineering Community.
source https://www.civilax.com/the-guide-to-galvanizing/
