55% aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel is known for its versatility, long life, and superior performance. Learn more about the benefits of 55% Al-Zn alloy in building and construction.
What is aluminum zinc alloy coated steel?
Aluminum-zinc alloy-coated steel is also known as galvalume. It is a type of metallic-coated steel product with a layer of aluminum, zinc, and silicon coated onto a steel sheet or coil. This coating provides both corrosion resistance and heat reflectivity to the steel, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
The process of making galvalume involves coating the steel sheet with a layer of molten aluminum-zinc alloy. The aluminum provides a barrier to corrosion. The zinc provides extra layer of protection for the steel. The silicon is added to the alloy to improve the adhesion of the coating to the steel substrate.
Galvalume is often used in construction applications, such as roofing and siding. Automotive and appliance industries use it in making parts and components. It is known for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and low maintenance requirements.
The zinc, aluminum, and silicon coatings provide protection for the base metal, which is similar to galvanization.
Aluminum Zinc Alloy vs. Galvanized Coatings
Galvanized coatings are made by applying a layer of zinc to a steel substrate. This can be done through either hot-dip galvanizing or electroplating. The zinc provides sacrificial protection to the steel, meaning that it will corrode before the steel does.
Galvanized coatings are often used in applications where the steel will be exposed to corrosive environments, such as outdoor structures or equipment.
Aluminum, zinc, and silicon comprise the steel substrate of aluminum-zinc alloy coatings. The aluminum provides a barrier to corrosion, while the zinc provides sacrificial protection.
The silicon is added to improve the adhesion of the coating to the steel substrate. Aluminum-zinc alloy coatings are known for their superior corrosion resistance compared to galvanized coatings, especially in harsh environments.
Galvanized coatings have a characteristic bright and shiny finish. Aluminum-zinc alloy coatings have a duller, matte appearance.
Aluminum Zinc Alloy Coated Steel Life
Aluminum-zinc alloy-coated steel can last for several decades of use. A comparative study of roofing was conducted in Northern America, which is subject to industrial and acid rains.
There was a deterioration in galvanized roofing compared to 55 percent aluminum-zinc sheets. The 55% Al-Zn sheet looks like new, even if the surface has lost its sheen due to dirt and exposure to the elements.
Since 1994, there has been little change in the aluminum-zinc coatings over galvanized sheets. Experts concluded that the life expectancy of 55 percent aluminum-zinc coated steel is twice that of steel that undergoes the hot dip galvanization process.
The long-term evaluations in Indianapolis in 1994 proved that steel sheets with 55 percent Al-Zn can last for thirty to forty years. For marine applications, the lifespan could be twice that of galvanized sheets.
The durability of Al-Zn coatings can save money on repairs and maintenance of the roofing sheet even if the surface cosmetic value has diminished over the years.
https://www.steelroofing.com/assets/doc/40yearsoflife.pdf
Conclusion
There is no doubt that the 55% aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel performs better than galvanized sheets. The test results showed its versatility and long-lasting performance, which is cost-saving
