Metal is one of Earth’s most valuable resources, making it worth protecting and preserving. Warding off corrosion is one way we can make our metal resources last much longer. Galvanizing structural steel is a prime example of the various active initiatives that aim to conserve our natural metal ores and assets.
Continue reading to learn some of the most notable benefits of galvanized structural steel, and more importantly, where you can take your scrap steel for EPA-approved metal recycling.
What is Metal Galvanization?
Galvanization is a metal fabrication process that involves coating structural steel with a metal alloy that is resistant to corrosion. Zinc is the common metal alloy used to give galvanized structural steel its unique metallurgical structure. However, galvanization often includes multiple layers of both zinc and zinc-iron alloys. It is essentially a sacrificial coating applied to protect the metal from aesthetic damage, oxidation (rust), and corrosion. There are many different methods of galvanizing metal, with the more popular processes being hot-dipped galvanization, which involves dunking the metal into a molten galvanizing compound, and spray galvanization, which is a cold organic galvanizing compound.
How is Galvanized Structural Steel Beneficial?
There are several benefits of galvanized steel. Let’s briefly review the top ten most notable advantages of choosing galvanized structural steel for your commercial or industrial applications:
Good for the Economy
Steel galvanization is one of the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly options for protecting metal against corrosion and damage. For contractors and builders, galvanized steel is easy on the budget compared to other types of coatings.
Highly Durable
Structural steel must be durable for any application it is being used for. In most cases, steel is being used to construct buildings, overpasses, bridges, or similar constructions that require long-term structural stability. Galvanized steel has a much longer shelf life and performance endurance compared to untreated structural steel.
Low Maintenance
Galvanized steel is low maintenance. Because it last much longer than other forms of structural steel, it is an economical choice. You won’t have to replace galvanized steel structures prematurely, which will save you money in the long run on renovations and rebuilds. It is also very hygienic and easy to clean.
Long Lifespan
Not only is galvanized steel durable and reliable, but it also has a very long shelf life. In average conditions, galvanized structural steel can last up to fifty years. In coastal or harsher conditions, galvanized structural steel can last between twenty and twenty-five years.
No Down Time
Galvanized steel comes ready to use, so there’s never any down time when it comes to commercial construction or industrial build projects. As soon as assembly of the structures complete, it is ready for the next stages of construction.
Would you like to responsibly recycle your left over or obsolete scrap steel components in Indy? Contact Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 for the most professional and hassle-free scrap metal recycling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay cash on the spot!
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