What is Galvanized Iron?
Essentially, galvanized iron is the same as regular iron. The main difference is that it has been treated with a protective layer of zinc coating.
The main reason to galvanize iron is to increase the strength and durability of the metal. It is due to its durable nature that galvanizing iron has become an increasingly popular alternative to standard iron or other metal alloy alternatives.
Although this is not a lifelong protection solution for your metal, it can add many additional years to its life expectancy.
This is dependent on the environment in which you store your metal. If, for example, you were to keep the iron in a coastal region that experiences high rainfall, ocean spray, and high winds, then consequently the lifespan will be significantly reduced.
The History of Galvanized Iron
This form of protected iron has been around for centuries and can be found in an endless list of items. You can find the earliest recorded use of galvanized iron in the 1700-1800s, in household nails and bolts, or even naval yards.
How is Iron Galvanized?
Whilst there are various methods of galvanization, the process that we use at B.B. Price is called ‘hot dip’ galvanization. Here we submerge a sheet of iron into a bath of molten liquid zinc which is kept at a steady temperature of approximately 450 °C or 842 °F.
The sheet of metal will then be kept submerged for about 5 minutes before it is quenched in water. The hot metal is rapidly cooled to adjust the mechanical properties of the iron’s original state. Thus, allowing for the formation of a robust, thick outer layer of zinc alloy on the iron. Additionally allowing our team to physically handle the metal again.
For this to work efficiently, galvanization must be implemented on a clean sheet of iron. Wherever it is needed, we can offer shot blasting services before the galvanization process. Shot Blasting uses centrifugal forces alongside the firing of abrasive materials against the item’s surface. This strips the outer layer back and ensures the best life expectancy for your galvanized iron.
What are the Benefits of Galvanized Iron?
Galvanized iron has endless benefits for commercial and industrial forging. As Galvanization protects your metal from rust, oxidization, the effects of weather, and physical damage, it is ideal for any use!
These benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Economical/ Cost Effective as it is cheaper than stainless steel.
- Reduced Maintenance.
- Longer Life Expectancy compared to plain iron.
- Reliable Coating Performance.
- Resistance to Mechanical Damage.
- It’s the toughest form of Metal Protection.
- Allows for easy inspections.
Applications of Galvanized Iron
Galvanized iron is used across a wide variety of industries. It is most commonly used in applications where resistance to corrosion and extended lifespan is essential. Such industries and applications include:
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Rail: Due to constant exposure to the elements, the rail industry requires strong iron parts that are resistant to corrosion and fatigue. Here at B.B. Price, we specliase in the production of galvanized iron support brackets, tunnel brackets, turnbuckles and shackles for the rail industry, keeping rail-line structures durable and secure for years to come.
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Telecommunications: Similar to the rail industry, as you might expect, the components used by the telecommunications industry are constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions. It therefore relies heavily on galvanized iron components for strength, and high corrosion resistance. B.B. Price is a renowned UK supplier to this industry, supplying galvanized insulator pins, eye bolts, crossarms and more, helping to keep overhead power-lines secure and operational, no matter the weather.
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Construction Forging: The construction industry is also a primary user of galvanized iron, requiring components that perform safely and efficiently under high pressure. B.B. Price produces high-quality forged construction products such as steel beams and pipes, fasteners, gear and more, ensuring long-lasting performance and safety
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Agriculture: The agricultural sector depends on powerful machinery with good longevity to operate in testing rural environments. Forged components play a vital role in ensuring this machinery withstands daily wear and extreme conditions. B.B. Price supports this industry with high-strength parts for tractors, plows, combines, harvesting machinery and more, guaranteeing precision and a long service life in the field.
Contact B.B. Price Today!
If you are interested in galvanised iron or would like further information regarding the processing of your product, then please contact B.B. Price today.
Our expert team are available to provide you with all the information that you could need or take any queries you may have.
Call us here, or fill out our online contact form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.