Multi-story buildings, underground parking, and the modern industrial sector require strong metal to withstand. The steel is strongest among all metals but it also corrodes due to air and water exposure. This corrosion weakens the steel’s capacity to stand for a long time. However, we can increase the lifecycle of the steel by using the Electrogalvanized Steel procedure.
Let’s discuss this method in detail.
What is Electrogalvanization?
It is a procedure to coat the steel with zinc solution to enhance the life cycle of steel. In this method, we use a zinc solution, dip the steel surface in the solution, and pass electricity in it. When electrical power passes through the solution, it produces an electrochemical reaction. As a result of this chemical reaction, zinc gets separated from the solution and sticks to the steel material as a coating layer. This whole process is electro-galvanization. Some people confuse this procedure with the hot-dip galvanization process. However, both are different and end results are also varying for both types. Hot-dip galvanization creates a rough zinc layer on the steel surface, which is destroyed quickly after exposure to air and water while Electrogalvanization gives a smooth coating of Zn.
Also Learn About Hot-Dip Galvanization Process
Why should you use Electrogalvanized Steel Sheets?
Oxidation is a process that is responsible for the destruction of steel. When steel gets connected with water or air then it starts to destroy due to the oxidation process. In this scenario, zinc-coated steel is a relief. Zinc has anodic solid properties as compared to steel. When zinc-coated steel comes in contact with air and water, it shows solid and resistant properties to protect the steel, ultimately enhancing its long-term capability.
The following are the main advantages of using Electrogalvanized Steel Sheets.
Zinc-Coated Steel Usage in Industries
Due to the continuously changing environment, zinc-coated steel has become essential for many industries.
Let’s discuss the usage of Galvanized Steel in different industries.
Agricultural Industry
Did you know that the tires of tractors used in the fields are made of steel?
These tractors are in continuous contact with water and air. Steel tires without a galvanization process are not suitable for use. They get corroded easily, which leads to repetitive repair costs for farmers. So, zinc-coated steel tires are the solution. Moreover, Galvanized Steel Pipes are also used for irrigation purposes.
Construction Industry
The construction industry is the largest sector of steel usage. The steel rods are the supportive structure for buildings.
Is it possible to replace the steel rods often in construction buildings?
No. That’s why zinc-coated steel has become integral to the construction industry.
Automotive Industry
Electrogalvanization steel is a massive support for the automotive industry. It is used in doors, windows, hoods, HVAC systems, etc.
Advantages of Using Electrogalvanized Steel
Using Electrogalvanized Steel prevents many problems, such as corrosion, repair costs, etc. It has a vibrant appearance with a thick zinc coating layer and solid and resistant properties and consistency.
Increase Efficiency Of Steel Alloys
Steel is used in many construction projects, e.g. steel pipes, bars, coils, wires, and PPGI coils. It is essential to use such a type of steel that stays long. Zinc-coated steel is more resistant to corrosion destruction. It has been estimated that zinc-coated steel in industries has a 50-year life span in a typical environment, while it is 20 years when continuously exposed to water. Therefore Galvanized Steel Coils, pipes, and wires are more durable.
Reduce Maintenance Cost
Galvanized sheets are used for their longevity and enhanced reduction properties in the oxidative phases, reducing maintenance costs.
Easy Inspection
Zinc thickness is a source that determines the quality of steel. Higher thickness indicates that the steel has a long life span, and thinner thickness means poor quality material.
When to Choose Electro Galvanization?
Manufacturers galvanized the materials by keeping in mind their intent of usage. For example, doors, windows, and pipes need more resistance due to heat, air, and water exposure, while any ornamental object does not need high resistance. So, you should use Galvanized Steel in projects where your steel alloys have greater exposure to water and air, and the repair procedure is not easy just like in construction projects.
Difference between Hot Dip Galvanizing vs Electrogalvanized Steel
Let’s discuss the difference between Hot Dip Galvanizing vs Electrogalvanized Steel to better understand which one to choose for which project.
| Electro Galvanization | Hot Dip Galvanization |
| Gives long life expectancy (decades) | Gives expectancy for years |
| Dull finishing | Smooth and shiny finishing |
| Uneven thicker Zn coating | Thinner but smooth Zn coating |
| High initial cost and used for larger objects | Lower initial cost and used for smaller objects |
| It is used in small appliances such as automotive components, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, wire products, nails, screws, and electrical enclosures. | It is used in structural steel beams and columns, guardrails and highway barriers, transmission towers, fencing, and gates, outdoor signage, industrial equipment, and machinery that are subjected to outdoor conditions. |
Also Read Different Types of Galvanized Steel
Conclusion
Steel is the most robust metal used in different industries such as agriculture, construction, and automotive. Steel, when it comes in contact with the air, water, or heat, reduces its life span due to the corrosion process. To prevent it from corrosion and make it more resistant to heat and water, manufacturers perform an electro-galvanization process. The steel is dipped in a zinc solution, and electricity passes through it. During this chemical reaction, zinc separates itself from the solution and sticks to the steel and the final steel product is more resistant to oxidation.
Where to find all these solutions?
Four Steels have provided you with enough information to know the advantages of Electrogalvanized Steel and insights to know for which projects you can select Galvanized Steel Sheet. However, if you are still confused about selecting steel for your project, you can contact our team by sending us an email at info@foursteels.com or call us now at +1 408 915 5212. We have been manufacturing steel products for many years. Our experts will guide you and help you in selecting the best-matched steel for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.What is Electrogalvanization?
It forms a zinc coat on steel to make it more heat, air, and water resistant. The steel rods are dipped in the zinc solution, and electricity passes through this solution. After electricity goes through this solution, Zin separates itself from it and sticks to the steel.
Q2. In which industries are electro galvanization steel used?
It is used in the following industries
- Agricultural
- Construction
- Industrial
- Automotive Industries
Q3.Which one is Better to Choose: Electro Galvanization or Hot Dip Galvanization?
It depends upon the usage of the steel. Hot dip galvanization gives a long life span with a thick zinc coating; Its initial cost is massive. At the same time, electro-galvanization gives a comparatively shorter life span with a smooth, shiny, and thin zinc coating. So, hot dip galvanization is better for large outdoor parts or the steel used in construction buildings because looks do not matter; rather, durability matters, and it is not easy to replace or repair steel, most often in such places.