What is Galvanized Iron?
Essentially, galvanized iron is the same as regular iron. The main difference is that it has been treated with a protective layer of zinc coating. The main reason to galvanize iron is to increase the strength and durability of the metal. It is due to its durable nature that galvanizing iron has become an increasingly popular alternative to standard iron or other metal alloy alternatives.
Although this is not a lifelong protection solution for your metal, it can add many additional years to its life expectancy. This is dependent on the environment in which you store your metal. If, for example, you were to keep the iron in a coastal region that experiences high rainfall, ocean spray, and high winds, then consequently the lifespan will be significantly reduced.
The History of Galvanized Iron:
This form of protected iron has been around for centuries and can be found in an endless list of items. You can find the earliest recorded use of galvanized iron in the 1700-1800s, in household nails and bolts, or even naval yards.
How is Iron Galvanized?
Whilst there are various methods of galvanization, the process that we use at B.B. Price is called ‘hot dip’ galvanization. Here we submerge a sheet of iron into a bath of molten liquid zinc which is kept at a steady temperature of approximately 450 °C or 842 °F. The sheet of metal will then be kept submerged for about 5 minutes before it is quenched in water. The hot metal is rapidly cooled to adjust the mechanical properties of the iron’s original state. Thus, allowing for the formation of a robust, thick outer layer of zinc alloy on the iron. Additionally allowing our team to physically handle the metal again.
For this to work efficiently, galvanization must be implemented on a clean sheet of iron. Wherever it is needed, we can offer shot blasting before the galvanization process. Shot Blasting uses centrifugal forces alongside the firing of abrasive materials against the item’s surface. This strips the outer layer back and ensures the best life expectancy for your galvanized iron.
What are the Benefits of Galvanized Iron?
Galvanized iron has endless benefits for commercial and industrial forging. As Galvanization protects your metal from rust, oxidization, the effects of weather, and physical damage, it is ideal for any use!
These benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Economical/ Cost Effective as it is cheaper than stainless steel.
- Reduced Maintenance.
- Longer Life Expectancy compared to plain iron.
- Reliable Coating Performance.
- Resistance to Mechanical Damage.
- It’s the toughest form of Metal Protection.
- Allows for easy inspections.
Contact Us for More!
If you are interested in galvanised iron or would like further information regarding the processing of your product, then please contact B.B. Price today.
Our expert team are available to provide you with all the information that you could need or take any queries you may have.
Call us here, or fill out our online contact form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
