Concept of Galvanization
Galvanization of steel is nothing but a process of application of a protective zinc coating to the steel for making it more durable in nature. The most common method used in the process of galvanization of steel is hot dip galvanizing which involves of submerging the parts of steel in a molten zinc bath.
Steps Involved in the Process of Galvanization
Ii is clear that the process of galvanization involves the application of coating. At the time of applying coating, the most important step is the preparation of the surface.
Caustic Cleaning
To begin with the galvanizing services, the first step is caustic cleaning and as indicated by the name, it refers to the removal of several organic impurities like dirt, grease and oil from the surface of the steel by a hot alkali solution. Other unwanted substances like vinyl, asphalt, epoxies or welding slag is cleaned by mechanical means.
Pickling
It is a process of removing scale and rust from the surface of the steel with the help of hydrochloric acid in an appropriate temperature.
Rinsing
After the process of chemical cleaning is over, the steel is properly washed in water for the minimisation of transfer of acid residues to the following stages of galvanization.
Fluxing
Fluxing is the final step in the preparation of galvanizing process where all oxides are removed and further formation of oxides are prevented which promotes the bonding of the coating of zinc with the steel.
Read more about Hot Dip Galvanizing Process – Tanya Galvanizers:
https://www.galvanizers.co.in/blog/hot-dip-galvanizing-process/
After the surface preparation of steel is complete, it is submerged in a molten zinc bath of approximate temperature of 830 degrees Fahrenheit containing about 98 percent pure zinc. Then the coated steel is taken out and cooled which concludes the process of galvanization.
How the Process Makes Steel More Durable
Hot dip galvanizing plays a crucial role in making the steel more durable in the following ways.
Resistant to Abrasion
The process of galvanization forms three abrasion resistant intermetallic layers and a top layer of pure zinc on the surface of the steel. This enables the steel to become more durable in nature which provides unparallel protection to the steel.
Protection is Uniform
Galvanizing provides uniform protection to the steel forming natural thick coating especially at the edges and corners that are more prone to damage. Therefore, the uniform protection leaves no weak points for being damaged or corroded.
Related: Reasons Why You Need To Use Galvanized Steel
Coverage is Complete
Due to the fact that the steel is completely submerged in molten, the coverage is complete both inside and outside. Hence, even if the steel is hollow the protection is complete making it more durable in nature.