What is Galvanized Tubing?

Galvanization, a term frequently used in the steel industry, is a manufacturing procedure whereby steel is coated with a thin layer of zinc to provide better protection against rust and corrosion. As a result, galvanized steel has a longer lifespan and greater durability than non-galvanized steel, which is why it is frequently used in industrial applications where steel's strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance are crucial. Here are some things you should know about the material if you're debating whether to use galvanized steel tubes or stainless steel tubes for your industrial facility.

Galvanization:

The process of galvanization is quite simple. Steel is cleaned of all impurities and then dipped in a solution of molten zinc. The zinc bonds with the steel to form a protective layer that is much less susceptible to rust and corrosion than the steel itself. The galvanized steel tubes are usually dipped in a zinc coating that is several millimeters thick. This provides a great deal of protection against the elements, making the tubes last much longer than they would without the coating. There are two types of galvanizations: hot-dip and electro. Hot-dip galvanization is the most common method, and it involves dipping the steel into a vat of molten zinc. Electro-galvanization is less common, and it consists in passing an electric current through the steel to deposit the zinc onto the surface.

How strong are galvanized steel tubes ?

Galvanized steel tubes are more robust than stainless steel tubes This is because the zinc coating provides an additional layer of protection against corrosion, making the steel more robust and more resistant to wear and tear. In terms of strength, galvanized steel tubes can withstand up to three times the pressure of stainless steel tubes. This makes them ideal for high-pressure applications. Galvanized steel tubes are also more resistant to corrosion than stainless steel tubes. This is because the zinc coating provides a barrier that prevents oxygen and water from reaching the steel beneath, preventing the formation of rust.

What are galvanized steel tubes used for?

Galvanized steel tubes are most recognizably used in plumbing and electrical applications. They are also often used in dust extraction, and bulk goods handling. In industrial applications, galvanized steel tubes are used for transporting gases or dust extraction. 

Is galvanized steel dangerous?

No, galvanized steel is not dangerous. The zinc coating is non-toxic and does not release fumes or dust into the air. However, it is worth noting that the zinc coating can cause skin irritation if it meets the skin. Galvanized steel should not be used in applications of extreme heat like coffee roasting. 

If you are planning to use galvanized steel tubes in your industrial facility, be sure to consult with our sales team or engineering team discuss your options. They will be able to advise you on the best type of tubing for your needs and help you find the right supplier for your project.

What is Galvanized Steel?

Galvanized steel is standard steel that is coated in zinc to provide enhanced corrosion resistance. The galvanized protective coating protects the iron steel substrate from corrosion due to moisture, saturated environmental conditions, or ambient humidity. The galvanization process produces a sacrificial layer between the protective zinc layer and the steel, allowing for maximum protection from rust-inducing elements.

The Galvanized Steel Manufacturing Process:

Typically, manufacturers will dip the steel into molten zinc, which bonds itself to the steel as any other alloy would. This makes zinc more than just a protective coating because it becomes part of the steel's chemical composition. The interior may be steel, and the exterior may be zinc, but in between are gradient mixtures of steel and zinc that combine the properties of both metals.  Hot-dipped galvanization is the most common form of galvanization.

Galvanized Steel Applications

Ideal for outdoor purposes, galvanized steel is coated with zinc oxide for rust protection. Zinc oxide provides a protective coating used to prevent rust. The zinc-oxide coating compound takes longer to corrode than non-galvanized steel. As a cost-efficient process, galvanized steel offers you a maintenance-free material option used across a wide range of industries.

Galvanized Steel Advantages:

 1. Less expensive:

Galvanized steel is cheaper than other types of steel because it does not need to be painted or coated to be protected from the elements.

2. Durable:

Galvanized steel is highly durable and can withstand exposure to the elements for years without rusting or corroding.

3. Low maintenance:

Galvanized steel does not require any special maintenance or care, making it a low-maintenance option for your projects.

4. Versatile:

Galvanized steel can be used for a wide range of applications, making it a versatile material for your projects.

5. Recyclable:

Galvanized steel is 100% recyclable, making it a sustainable material for your projects.

Galvanized Steel Disadvantages:

 1. Susceptible to corrosion:

Galvanized steel is susceptible to corrosion if it is not adequately cared for or if it is exposed to salt water or other corrosive materials.

2. Limited lifespan:

The zinc coating on galvanized steel will eventually corrode, and the steel will need to be replaced.

3. Difficult to weld:

Galvanized steel is more difficult to weld than other types of steel because the zinc coating can make the steel more brittle.

4. Emits fumes:

When galvanized steel is heated to high temperatures, it emits fumes that can be harmful to your health or food products.

Conclusion:

Galvanized steel is a type of steel that is coated in zinc to provide enhanced corrosion resistance. The galvanized protective coating protects the iron steel substrate from corrosion due to moisture, saturated environmental conditions, or ambient humidity. The galvanization process produces a sacrificial layer between the protective zinc layer and the steel, allowing for maximum protection from rust-inducing elements.

The JACOB modular system is perfect for use in the food and beverage industry due to its flexibility, efficiency, and ability to be customized to meet the user's specific needs. Modern industrial technology in its production also produces high-quality, innovative products.

JACOB Tubing is No. 1 for modular tubing systems. Conveying tubing systems for bulk goods handling and dust extraction, and ventilation systems for environmental applications (cooling air/exhaust air) all fall within the enormous scope of JACOB tubing systems. JACOB Tubing offers solutions for numerous application areas, whether with our modular series-manufactured products or individual custom-specific products.

Do you have questions about our products, or are you planning an application? Contact us today!