Steel is a remarkably strong material, and as a result, it is commonly used for a wide variety of industrial applications. However, it is also susceptible to things like corrosion. As such, it is important to apply protective coatings to structures and equipment made of steel. Two of the most common metal finishing methods for preventing damage to steel components are powder coating and galvanizing.
Powder Coating
Powder coating is extremely popular in the metal finishing industry. The powder coating process involves applying a dry, electrostatically charged coating to a surface, and then curing it until a protective layer is formed. There are many benefits using powder coating on steel components. Powder coating is extremely durable, and can protect a surface from chipping, abrasions, corrosion, and chemical damage, among other things. It is also available in a wide array of colors and textures.
Galvanizing
Galvanizing is a metal finishing process that involves dipping steel in molten zinc, which creates a metallurgic bond between the two materials. Galvanizing results in a layer of zinc that protects the steel from the elements and prevents it from succumbing to corrosion. Galvanized steel can last for 50-100 years, and requires very little maintenance, which makes it cost effective in the long-term.
Which Is Best?
So, which method is better for finishing steel? Powder coating or galvanizing? The truth is, neither of these metal finishing methods is inherently superior to the other. While powder coating is the best choice for some applications, galvanizing is better for others.
For example, because powder coating offers so many more color options than galvanizing, it is a better choice for applications where aesthetics are important. Meanwhile, galvanizing makes steel more temperature resistant than powder coating, and so is better for applications that involve extreme heat or extreme cold.
If you have a steel component that needs a protective coating, do your research to find out which method best suits your application before committing to one or the other.
If you have questions about metal finishing, feel free to contact Secoa Metal Finishing by calling (706) 383-2893 or sending an email to sales@secoatech.com. We offer high-quality metal finishing services in Georgia and the surrounding area.