Zinc coatings are used to protect steel because they work not only as a physical barrier. In the presence of an electrolyte, zinc is a more active metal and takes over the anodic reaction, reducing the rate of destruction of the steel base. This mechanism is especially important for small scratches, where the usual barrier coating no longer completely isolates the metal from the environment.
Barrier and electrochemical mechanisms complement each other
As long as the layer remains solid, it restricts the access of water, oxygen, and contaminants to the steel. With a local defect, the protective effect of zinc begins to manifest itself. However, the protection resource is not infinite: zinc is gradually consumed, and the speed of the process depends on humidity, salts, industrial pollutants, and other environmental factors.
Therefore, it is impossible to assign the same service life for any object without calculating and confirming the coverage system. The Zinker website provides information on zincing and testing of materials, but the design solution must take into account the category of the medium, the preparation of the substrate and the required thickness.
The contact of the zinc phase with the steel is fundamental
For the tread mechanism, it is important that the coating is formed on a cleaned metal base. Loose rust, scale, oil and a fragile old coating create a gap between the material and the steel. In such a situation, even a high zinc content alone does not guarantee the required system performance.
Zinc-containing steel protection compounds are thoroughly mixed until smooth, as the metal filler tends to settle. During application, uniformity, interlayer exposure and the absence of non-stains on the edges and welds are monitored.
Surface preparation sets the adhesion
The steel is cleaned to the extent specified in the technical documentation of the system. After abrasive or mechanical treatment, dust is removed and the surface is degreased. Sharp edges are rounded off, welding splashes and surges are removed. If a strong old layer remains on the part, check its compatibility with the repair material and smooth out the transition boundary.
The complete technological process of galvanizing includes not only the application of the composition. It includes preparation, control of conditions, layer formation, drying and acceptance. Eliminating one stage makes the result less predictable.
The thickness is evaluated together with the continuity
The large thickness does not compensate for pores, contamination of the substrate, or poor adhesion. Therefore, several characteristics are checked during acceptance: appearance, absence of gaps and build-ups, adhesion to