What Is The Difference Between Stainless Steel, Galvanised And Powder-Coated Steel For Your Balustrade?
Posted on: 28 February 2019
If you're having custom tubular steel fencing constructed around your deck or pool area, you might have come across different terms such galvanised, powder-coated and stainless steel. Here is a quick explanation to help you select the right options for your balustrade.
Steel And Stainless Steel Mixtures
First of all, the expressions 'galvanised' and 'powder coated' both refer to treatments that are applied to the surface of a metal object after it is created. Stainless steel, however, is a particular type of steel.
All steel is produced by combining metals and chemicals. General steel is made from mixing iron, carbon and other metals like chromium, manganese and vanadium. Stainless steel, though, is created with a slightly different mix; it includes at least 10 per cent chromium. Stainless steel combines iron and chromium with smaller amounts of carbon, manganese, molybdenum nickel and other elements.
Chromium is the primary element that makes stainless steel anti-corrosive. Because this ingredient is added to the alloy during creation, stainless steel is protected right the way through. The chromium does not simply provide a protective coating but is part of the inside composition of the steel.
Galvanising Metal
Galvanising and powder coating are treatments that can be applied to metal, including steel, after it is already manufactured. They are kinds of surface treatments. During a galvanising process, the metal is dipped in a hot molten zinc bath. The liquid zinc then coats the surface, and this film shields it from corrosion. Galvanised steel fencing, for example, then is primed to withstand harsh weather without rusting because of this zinc layer.
Powder-Coating Treatments
Powder coating is a treatment that both protects metal and creates a decorative finish. During this process, a mix of resin and pigments are sprayed onto the object which is then baked. The heat melts the dry coating, melding it to the surface. Powder coating protects against corrosion. As well, the coloured pigments decorate the item with a hard, smooth finish.
Overall, then, stainless steel is a type of steel. Its original chromium content protects it right through from rusting. Both galvanising and powder-coating treatments are applied to a metal object after it is already created. These processes generate a protective anti-corrosive outer layer. If you're having steel fabrication work done to make tubular steel fencing for your home or pool area, either stainless steel or coated steel will be excellent. They will both withstand harsh weather conditions and splashing pool water.
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