Within the realm of steel and metal, one of the single most important qualities for many clients and project managers is corrosion resistance. Many forms of metal can rust and otherwise corrode when exposed to moisture, humidity or other environmental conditions, but certain properties of metal can help guard against this — and within the realm of steel, a common option here is galvanized steel.

At Wasatch Steel, we’re happy to offer a wide variety of steel products to our Salt Lake City clients, including steel bar, steel plate and many others. What exactly is galvanized steel, and what are some of its most common industries of application? Let’s dive in.

What is Galvanized Steel?

As we were alluding to above, galvanized steel is a type of steel that has been coated in zinc. This metal coating adds an extra layer of protection against rust and other forms of corrosion, making it an ideal option for many industries or applications where these factors may come into play — such as construction, manufacturing, automotive and more.

To create galvanized steel, there are a few different processes that may be used, though most involve one of two primary methods: hot-dip galvanizing and electroplating. Hot-dip galvanizing involves immersing the steel in a bath of molten zinc, which results in a bond between the zinc and steel that is both extremely strong and durable. Electroplating, on the other hand, involves applying a thin layer of zinc to the steel through an electrolytic process.

Strengths of Galvanized Steel

As we mentioned above, galvanized steel is often selected for its ability to combat corrosion and rust — but what are some of the other key qualities that make it such a popular choice in many industries? In addition to its corrosion resistance, galvanized steel is also noted for its strength, durability and affordability.

Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of galvanized steel, though, is what it means for the environment — as this material has a relatively low carbon footprint compared to other forms of metal. Rather than relying on raw materials to create new products, galvanized steel utilizes recycled resources that have already been made, which in turn helps reduce the amount of energy and other resources that may be needed to create new steel products.

Our next several sections will look at the common industries in which galvanized steel is used.

General Construction

As you may have guessed, perhaps the single most common industry where you’ll find galvanized steel is general construction. This material is often used for everything from metal frames to beams and more, due to its strength, durability and corrosion resistance — all factors that are essential in a harsh environment like the job site.

For instance, let’s say that a metal stud has corroded and needs to be replaced. Since galvanized steel is extremely durable, it can easily withstand most job site conditions without the need for additional protective measures — saving time and money in the process.

Automotive

In addition to construction, you’ll also find that galvanized steel is commonly used in many automotive applications as well. This is especially true in the undercarriage, which has to withstand a number of harsh conditions from road salt to intense heat and more — all situations where galvanized steel can truly shine.

For example, let’s say that you need parts for your car that are durable enough to handle the wear and tear of long-distance driving or off-roading. Since galvanized steel is resistant to rust, it won’t wear down or weaken — especially when compared to parts of your car that simply rust over time.

Metal Fittings

There are numerous devices or tools that need to be made out of metal, and many of them require a certain type of metal. In the case of galvanized steel, this material is ideal for applications where strong corrosion resistance is needed — such as with metal fittings.

For instance, if you have a plumbing problem in your home and you need replacement parts, it’s often best to choose galvanized steel fittings. This can help prevent rust and other forms of corrosion that could otherwise lead to leaks or a need for frequent replacements.

Home Appliances

Especially within the kitchen, many home appliances are made to be corrosion resistant or otherwise durable. Many of today’s refrigerators, for instance, are made from galvanized steel as this gives them superior strength while also helping guard against rust and corrosion.

This is also true when it comes to electrical appliances, as high-quality metal parts are often constructed with galvanized steel in order to prevent any form of damage that could otherwise result in costly repairs or replacements.

Industrial Applications

Finally, because so many industrial products are created using metal, it’s not uncommon to find galvanized steel in many applications. In fact, this material is so popular that you’ll likely find it used in a wide range of industries — from electrical engineering to robotics and beyond.

As you can see, there are numerous benefits that come with choosing galvanized steel for your next project. Whether you need help in construction, automotive or any other industry, there’s a good chance that galvanized steel is the ideal material to choose.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our steel products or services that will help you complete any job you’re working on in or around SLC, contact our team at Wasatch Steel today.