Galvanization and Alloying

There are two ways to improve the resistance of steel to corrosion: galvanizing and alloying. These two metallurgical methods revolve around the same principle of providing a passive protective surface, but they are done through different procedures. Both have sparked tremendous advancements in their field such as prolonging the life of reinforcing steel bars in structural components and improving the performance of metal elements in machines.

Combating corrosion is one way to improve the performance of steel. Some metals have natural corrosion resistance which makes them very good materials to alloy or galvanize. Steel has limited resistance to corrosion due to its very small percentage of carbon. Combining it with metals of higher resistance such as aluminum, zinc and chromium will shield it from rust while retaining its strength.

The difference between galvanizing and alloying has to do with the way they’re bonded to steel. Galvanization bonds two metals together. Unlike in metal cladding where one solid is fused to another solid object to form a heterogeneous concoction, galvanization involves soaking the metal product in a tub of melted material to create a thin uniform layer of protective covering.

In the case of steel, galvanizing is done by dipping steel bars or plates in zinc to cover the surface with the highly passive element. It inhibits the chemical reaction with oxygen called oxidation, effectively stopping rust buildup. The resulting material can be used in different durable products such as stainless steel strapping and rust-free vehicle casings.

Alloying follows a different process. The metals to be fused are both melted into a liquid state. The goal of alloying is to mix up two kinds of metal to obtain the good properties of both in one item. Alloying steel with chromium turns it stain resistant, making it a perfect raw material for products such as a stainless steel strapping tool.