Galvanization is one of the best ways to protect your iron fence.
Galvanization is one of the best ways to protect your iron fence. What can this process protect your iron fence against? Namely, rust. In this blog we’ll examine galvanization and why it is important for iron fences. Protect the investment you made on your iron fences, and make them last longer. Read on to learn more!
Types of Rust Protection
What are the types of rust protection? Including our topic, they are:
Primer Paint: Primer paint helps, but does not offer much rust protection. It provides the least amount of galvanized shielding. Because coverage can be inconsistent, it is probably better to consider the other types of rust protection instead.
E-Coating: E-coating provides an acceptable level of rust protection. Organic and water-soluble paint-like substances are used to bath the metal before an electrical current is run through the solution. However, the metal used for e-coating must be properly cleaned and prepared, or else the coating will not stick effectively.
Hot Dip Galvanization: Hot dip galvanization is the best method of rust protection. It is supremely protective against the effects of corrosion, particularly in situations and circumstances where the fences will see heavy use and severe weather. Corrosion can come from the atmosphere, water, and soil, and heavier-duty fencing projects are particularly vulnerable. During this process, the metal is bathed in molten zinc.
The Process of Galvanization
Galvanization depends on both preparation and coating. The preparation phase is about 80% of the process, while coating accounts for the remaining 20%. Molten zinc provides the galvanization effect, but how do you get there?
- Caustic cleaning
- Rinsing
- Pickling
- Rinsing
- Flux Solution
- Galvanizing through molten zinc bath
- Inspection phase featuring cooling and quality assurance checks
The Consequences of Poor Galvanization
If one of the steps outlined above is left out of the process, it can result in poor galvanization. What are some of the of consequences of poorly done galvanization? In some cases, the outcome of the process may not immediately apparent. Properly galvanized, iron fences should last for years or decades to come; if done improperly, however, the coating might only last two years or so before degradation sets in. Peeling, bubbling, blistering, and premature rusting are all possible consequences resulting from poor galvanization.
CHOOSE HERCULES CUSTOM IRON
Whether you would like precast bollards or your aluminum fence to be repaired, replaced, or would like an iron fence (period!), the pros at Hercules Custom Iron are ready to help. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or giving us a call at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.