![]() The biggest disadvantage of the galvanizing process is its cost. This process helps protect the steel substrate between maintenance operations. In other words, if the metal's surface becomes exposed due to scratches, cuts or dents, the zinc coating will sacrifice itself by corroding preferentially. Galvanizing is also renowned for its galvanic protection. For example, the zinc oxide coating is highly stable and adheres tightly to the metal substrate it is very durable and does not flake off easily. The galvanizing process has multiple advantages that make it a popular choice for numerous applications. Once removed, the coated metal reacts with oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to form a protective zinc carbonate layer. Galvanizing involves immersing the metal (mostly steel or iron) in a molten zinc bath. Additionally, due to the processes used, the colors that can be achieved by anodizing is limited. This process is unsuitable for ferrous metals, which means that common materials like steel and iron cannot be anodized. The most significant drawback of this process is that it is only useful on a handful of metals. Furthermore, because anodizing is a natural process, it is non-toxic and does not produce any harmful or dangerous by-products. Finished anodized surfaces are also chemically stable and do not decompose under normal conditions, allowing for a long-lasting coated surface. Anodized surfaces can be easily periodically cleaned using mild detergents. An electrical current is passed through the aluminum, causing it to oxidize and form a protective barrier.Īnodized finishes are perhaps the easiest to maintain of all the coatings mentioned in this article. See more in Part 2.Anodizing is performed by immersing the aluminum component in a tank filled with an electrolytic solution along with a cathode (usually aluminum or lead). This type of corrosion can be avoided with regular cleaning and application of protective coatings If this thin film is broken, the metal beneath the film will start to corrode. Active-Passive Cells: Some metals actually depend on thin films of corrosion product, called an active-passive cell, for corrosion protection.This can be minimized by sealing the exposed areas keeping the surfaces clean, and avoiding materials that will create moisture between surfaces. Oxygen Concentration Cells: This type of corrosion can occur in areas with low oxygen like underneath wood, rubber, tape, and other materials.This can be prevented by sealing the exposed crevices to prevent water from coming into contact with the metal. There are three general types of concentration cell corrosion: Metal Ion Concentration Cells: This happens most commonly in water when a high concentration of metal ions are exposed crevices and become corroded over time. Concentration Cell Corrosion Concentration cell corrosion occurs when two or more areas of a metal surface are in contact with each other but corrode at different rates. Popular trinkets like insulating gaskets and washers can assist with staving off galvanic corrosion but they will need to be replaced with regular maintenance. This form of corrosion can easily be spotted where the two metals meet. Galvanic Corrosion Galvanic corrosion occurs when different metals come into contact with each other. Using protective coatings like paint or a sealant can control uniform corrosion for short term but for long term control, a comprehensive solution is required. And since rust is pretty common it’s not a huge issue for architects to take care of. You can think of uniform corrosion as rust, since it is the most common form of corrosion. Uniform Corrosion Let’s start with the basic form of corrosion first. Below is a selection of just three forms of corrosion. Metals corrode because they’re used in environments where they’re naturally unstable and it’s a big problem for bridge, pipeline, plant builders and other architects who frequently use metal products in their structures. According to the Kennedy Space Center, corrosion can be defined as the deterioration of a material due to a chemical reaction with its environment over time. ![]()
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