Hot-dip galvanizing (HDG), as referenced on this site, is the process whereby fabricated steel, structural steel, castings, or small parts, including fasteners, are immersed in a kettle or vat of molten zinc, resulting in a metallurgically bonded alloy coating that protects the steel from corrosion. Sheet steel in coil or flat form, generally in the 10 gauge to 28 gauge range, is also protected from corrosion by hot-dip galvanizing in a slightly different process. For information about that process and those products (G60, G90, etc.) contact the GalvInfo Center at www.galvinfo.com.
Hot-dip galvanizing is often referred to as just “galvanizing.” The term is often used incorrectly to describe steel coated with zinc-rich paint, electro-statically (plated) applied zinc, and mechanically applied zinc. All of these methods of applying zinc to steel for corrosion protection are very different from hot-dip galvanizing, and may be inappropriate for many situations and environmental exposures. For more information about the distinguishing characteristics of each zinc application method, view the publication Zinc Coatings.
