Introduce
This article will comprehensively introduce the types, uses, and creative uses of galvanized steel. Galvanized steel can effectively prevent corrosion and improve the service life of the steel by coating it with a layer of zinc. The article will explore the application of galvanized steel in fields such as construction, transportation, and daily necessities, as well as the precautions and techniques during the production of galvanized steel. Finally, the article also suggests innovative uses of galvanized steel, such as artistic creation or interior design.
Definition and advantages of galvanized steel
Galvanized steel, also known as hot-dip galvanized steel, is a type of steel that is immersed in a molten zinc pool to form a zinc layer on the surface of the steel. The surface of the steel will react chemically with molten zinc, forming a zinc-iron alloy protective layer against corrosion. Galvanizing can effectively inhibit ion migration of steel and avoid corrosion caused by contact with air and moisture.
Galvanized steel has excellent corrosion resistance compared to ordinary steel. The mechanism of its corrosion resistance is that zinc’s electrochemical activity is lower than steel’s, resulting in anodic protection. Zinc will preferentially corrode to protect the lower steel. In addition, mechanical bonding is formed between the galvanized layer and the steel substrate to improve adhesion. This material can be made into galvanized steel coils and galvanized steel sheets, among others.
Common uses of galvanized steel
Galvanized steel is widely used in fields such as construction, transportation, and daily necessities due to its excellent corrosion resistance. Below are several common uses.
Construction
Galvanized steel is widely used in the construction industry, including steel structure buildings, reinforced concrete, steel roofs, steel structure equipment, etc. For example, steel frames for bridges, steel frameworks for high-rise buildings, and steel support structures for sports venues all require galvanized steel to extend their service life. In addition, galvanized thin steel plates are commonly used for building exterior walls and roofs.
Transportation industry
Galvanized steel is also widely used in the structural materials and components of vehicles such as cars, trains, and airplanes. For example, galvanized steel is used in car bodies, train carriages, aircraft wings, and fuselage. These steel structures and components must withstand complex stresses and harsh environments, and galvanizing can provide long-lasting anti-corrosion protection.
Daily necessities
The white-glazed steel plate made of galvanized steel is widely known in daily necessities. For example, the shells of household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, and microwave ovens are all made of galvanized steel plates. In addition, galvanized steel is also required for sewage and water supply pipelines.
Galvanized steel production techniques and precautions
To fully utilize the corrosion resistance function of galvanized steel, the following techniques need to be noted during the production process:
Preprocessing
Before galvanizing, the steel should undergo pre-treatment such as polishing and pickling to remove surface oil stains and improve the adhesion of the coating. Acid pickling should be thoroughly rinsed to avoid affecting the quality of galvanizing.
Galvanizing method
Hot dip galvanizing and electro-galvanizing are two common methods of galvanizing. The hot-dip galvanized layer is thicker and generally has a longer protection time. Electrogalvanizing has high precision and can control the thickness of the galvanized layer, making it suitable for components.
Post-processing
After galvanizing, the oxides and pollutants on the zinc layer should be removed promptly, and the surface should be washed thoroughly before subsequent coating. Avoid direct spraying of paint on galvanized surfaces.
Innovative uses of galvanized steel
In addition to the traditional uses mentioned above, there have also been some innovative uses of galvanized steel, such as:
artistic works
The artist creatively designed, cut, and spliced galvanized steel plates to create a three-dimensional sculpture, full of coldness and futuristic feeling.
interior design
Utilize the texture of galvanized steel plate to create simple and fashionable interior decorative walls or furniture panels.
Outdoor products
Replace stainless steel and use corrosion-resistant galvanized steel to make outdoor furniture such as tables, chairs, and flower racks.
Conclusion
This article introduces the types, properties, uses, and innovative applications of galvanized steel. By utilizing its unique anti-corrosion function it and combining scientific production techniques, it is believed that more creative steel usage can be developed. We look forward to seeing galvanized steel bring more surprises and benefit social development.
