Galvanized iron is coated with zinc to resist corrosion, commonly done through hot-dip galvanizing or electrodeposition. Zinc can be painted, but corrosion can occur if the coating is penetrated or in acidic conditions. Galvanized iron comes in various formats and can be cut or welded by professionals.
Galvanized iron is iron that has been coated with a layer of zinc to help the metal resist corrosion. Steel can also be galvanized. When the metal will be used in an environment where corrosion is likely, it is often zinc plated so that it will be able to withstand the conditions. Even with galvanizing, however, corrosion will eventually begin to occur, especially if conditions are acidic.
There are two main techniques that can be used to make galvanized iron. The most common is hot-dip galvanizing, in which iron is moved through an extremely hot bath of molten zinc, which may be mixed with small amounts of lead, depending on the circumstances. When the iron comes out of the bath, the zinc will have bonded, creating a layer of zinc on the surface of the iron. Sometimes, the metal may be passed through a mill to flatten and even out the finish. Another technique that can be used is electrodeposition, also known as electrodeposition, although this is rare.
Once galvanized, iron is covered with a layer of zinc that can be shiny to dull gray. The zinc can be painted if desired or left plain. Painting is often done when iron needs to match other building materials or when people want to make it less noticeable. In the garden, for example, it can be painted green so that it blends in with the foliage instead of standing out.
As long as the zinc coating remains intact, the galvanized iron should remain in relatively good condition. However, acidic conditions can eat away at the zinc over time, creating areas where corrosion can occur. Corrosion can also occur when the coating has penetrated, such as when someone drives a nail through a galvanized iron sheet, exposing the iron inside to the elements. Once corrosion begins, it can spread under the zinc, eventually causing the metal to fail.
There is a wide variety of uses for this type of iron, which comes in tubes, stakes, sheet and wire, among other formats. Many Home Hardware and Supplies carry galvanized iron products and may be willing to cut custom pieces upon request. People may also be referred to professionals who will weld or cut galvanized iron to fit the needs of a particular project.
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