Volume 7, Issue 2

  


HOT-DIP GALVANIZE OR PAINT?

Predicting long term savings using Life-Cycle Cost

Selection of a corrosion protection system by an architect, engineer, or project owner is often made based on the priorities of initial price, historical performance, established specifications, and/or personal preference, in that order.

While all are important elements of the decision-making process, the project’s total cost (initial + maintenance cost) for the duration of the design life - a.k.a. life-cycle cost (LCC) - is often two to five times greater than the initial cost. This suggests that the top priority in the analysis should be the determination of LCC.    > MORE


Q: On a recent  project, some of the hot-dip galvanized steel pieces were a shiny, spangled gray, while others were a dull, matte gray.  Why is there a difference in coating appearance, and does it affect the corrosion resistance of the coating?

Image 1

Differences in appearance on hot-dip galvanized steel products (as seen in Figure 1, right) can be caused by several factors. The most common factors include the presence of silicon and phosphorous in the steel, different rates of cooling of the product after removal from the galvanizer’s kettle of molten zinc, or the production process used to make the steel.


It is important to note that differences in appearance do not affect corrosion resistance.     > MORE

 

 


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This official publication of the American Galvanizers Association, Inc. (AGA) does not necessarily reflect the view of the board of directors or AGA members. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy. Any errors are strictly accidental and may be corrected in a subsequent issue. This material provides general information only and is not intended as a substitute for competent, professional examination and verification as to suitability and applicability. The publication of the material herein is not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of the AGA. Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use. Questions or comments about this publication should be directed to the AGA. Comments and suggestions are encouraged.

Copyright © 2007 American Galvanizers Association. The material provided herein has been developed to provide accurate and authoritative information about after-fabrication hot-dip galvanized steel. This material provides general information only and is not intended as a substitute for competent professional examination and verification as to suitability and applicability. The information provided herein is not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of the AGA. Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.