Corrosion is a major concern for steel structures, but with proper planning and the use of galvanized coatings, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your steel projects. Galvanizing, specifically hot dip galvanizing, is a proven method to protect steel against corrosion, and this protection begins in the design phase. In this post, we’ll explore what galvanizing is, why it’s important, and the initial design considerations you should keep in mind to ensure the best results.

Understanding Galvanizing

Hot dip galvanizing involves immersing steel in molten zinc to form a protective coating. This process provides a durable and long-lasting barrier against environmental factors that cause corrosion. Galvanized steel is widely used in various industries due to its outstanding corrosion resistance, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance requirements.

Initial Design Considerations

When you decide to use hot dip galvanizing, it’s crucial to ensure that your designs are suitable for the process. Proper design not only enhances the quality of the galvanizing but also extends the life of your steel fabrications. The Australian Standard AS/NZS 2312.2 offers excellent design advice, and here, we’ve expanded on some of its key points.

Consult with Experts:

If you’re unsure about any aspect of designing for galvanizing, it’s always best to consult with your galvanizer. Most galvanizers have extensive experience and can provide valuable insights. Additionally, the Galvanizers Association of Australia (GAA) offers technical support and resources to help you with your design.

Venting and Draining:

One essential resource is the Venting and Draining guide, which helps ensure that molten zinc and processing solutions can flow freely into and out of your fabrications. Proper venting and draining are critical for achieving high-quality galvanizing.

Starting corrosion protection at the design phase and considering the specifics of hot dip galvanizing can lead to superior, long-lasting steel structures. By consulting with experts and following established guidelines, you can ensure your designs are optimised for galvanizing. Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive deeper into specific design considerations to achieve the best results with galvanizing.