Hot-dip galvanizing is the process of applying a thin layer of zinc to iron or steel by passing the steel through a bath of molten zinc at a temperature of about 860 °F (460 °C). When exposed to the atmosphere, pure zinc reacts with oxygen to form zinc oxide, which then reacts with carbon dioxide to form zinc carbonate, a dull gray material strong enough to stop further corrosion in many cases, protecting the steel under the elements. Galvanized steel is widely used in areas where rust resistance is required, and can be determined by the nature of crystallization on the surface (often referred to as”irradiation”).
The hot-dip galvanizing process leads to the formation of a metallurgical bond between zinc and steel using a number of different ferrocene alloys. The resulting coated steel can be used in almost the same way without coating. Galvanized steel can be welded, but you need to pay attention to the resulting zinc vapors. Galvanized steel is suitable for use at high temperatures up to 392 ° F (200 °C). Use at temperatures above this level will cause the zinc to peel off in the intermetallic layer. Galvanized sheet is commonly used in the automotive industry to improve the corrosion properties of the exterior panels of some models.
Galvanized steel can be purchased online and in any metal supermarket. It can be cut according to your exact specifications.