We receive many frequently asked questions about our hot-dip galvanizing process and more. So, we thought we would take the top 5 questions we get asked and answer them in less than 300 words!
Q: Do you use chemicals in your galvanization process?
A: We use some acids and bases to clean the material prior to galvanizing it. We pride ourselves on our environmental record and recycle all of our chemicals and rinse waters to the fullest extent possible.
Q: How does galvanizing steel protect from corrosion?
A: Let’s start with some definitions. Corrosion is how metal breaks down as oxygen attacks the surface. Rust is the special type of corrosion experienced by iron. Oxygen creates iron oxide, which flakes away from the body of the metal, exposing fresh metal to oxygen.
Metals that don’t rust, like aluminum and stainless, form an oxide layer on the surface. This resists further corrosion. Another metal that oxidizes without rusting is zinc, and zinc is interesting because it bonds well to steel.
So, if you want to give steel a coating that lasts longer than paint, cover it with a layer of zinc. And that’s how galvanizing protects steel.
Q: How long will galvanized steel last on a project?
A: Depending on environmental factors, galvanized steel can last anywhere from 70-100 years.
Q: What are your kettle sizes?
A: Our large kettle size is 33 ft x 5.4 x 8 ft deep and our smaller kettles are 25 ft x 5 ft x 8 ft deep.
Q: What are your specialties?
A: We are the premier producer of hot-dip galvanizing and also offer several other galvanizing services such as:
- Spin Galvanizing
- Freight
- Custom Packaging and Assembly
It is important to ask questions about galvanized steel and the process before you begin your project. Partner with someone who will be able to give you all of the answers you need.
