The hot dip galvanizing process

The total absence of maintenance and the ten-year guarantee are a prerogative of all Gaia products. How is it possible? Why aren’t Gaia gazebos, pergolas, tables and chairs subject to aging? One of the main “secrets” is hot-dip galvanizing, an anti-corrosive treatment of steel that is applied by immersing the products in a molten zinc bath at a temperature of 450 °C, after carrying out a series of chemical pretreatments.

The hot dip galvanizing process consists of the following phases:

What is the difference between galvanizing and painting?

The difference is substantial! Zinc, by its very metallic nature, has a very high resistance to knocks or scratches, while painting can easily be damaged. Hot dip galvanizing protects the external and internal surfaces. It is not possible to galvanize only the external part of the profiles for safety reasons, in fact each profile must be perforated to avoid the risk of potential explosions during the process, safeguarding those in charge of the treatment. Protecting the internal parts from corrosion also is of enormous importance at a structural level, in fact often rust is formed inside the tubes where humidity stagnates, compromising the stability and durability of the product.

What is the difference between galvanizing and anticorrosive treatments?

The main difference lies in the adherence of the protective layer. With the exception of galvanizing, all anticorrosive treatments consist of a layer that simply overlaps the steel acting as a barrier between the latter and atmospheric corrosive agents. A simple abrasion is enough and the corrosive agents start to attack the underlying metal again.

Differences between hot and cold galvanizing?

In cold galvanizing, the deposited zinc layer is reduced, leading over time to problems related to resistance to oxidation. Cold galvanizing is therefore not recommended for objects intended for placement in outdoor or particularly humid environments. The main use is the protection of light and small-sized elements, such as screws, nails, metal wires, bolts, connection means and small parts in general.

How long does hot dip galvanizing last?

The thickness of the zinc is directly proportional to the thickness of the steel to be treated. For structural steels (greater than 5mm) the thickness of the zinc layer ranges from 85 to 150 microns.The degree of corrosion is variable and closely linked to environmental factors such as high humidity or extreme climatic conditions. In general it can be said that on average the duration of hot galvanizing protection varies from a minimum of 40 years to well over the century.

Is it possible to paint galvanized products?

Of course! It is possible to apply paints of any color, finish and gloss to the galvanizing. The result of this operation is a further protection of the product, thus also extending its duration, a decidedly significant benefit also in economic terms.