When it comes to building materials, perhaps no other has had as big of an impact on our lives as galvanised steel has. Although many of us are completely unaware of the pivotal role it plays, this tough, durable and incredibly versatile material is responsible for many of the constructions, appliances and machinery that literally make our world what it is
Here we take a look at the surprisingly fascinating world of galvanised steel where we’ll discover how it’s made, what benefits it brings compared to other materials, its historical uses and how it’s used to manufacture our speciality – bearings!
What Is Galvanised Steel?
First things first, before we get to the ins and outs of galvanised steel, how it’s used and what its advantages are, what exactly is it?
Quite simply, galvanised steel is a type of steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc. This coating is designed to protect it from corrosion.
As a result of this coating, galvanised steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it more durable and long-lasting than other types of steel. This is why it’s commonly used for a variety of applications, including construction, automotive components and household appliances, which all require a robust material to provide longevity and durability.
How Galvanised Steel Is Made
As we touched on above, galvanised steel is coated in zinc. But how exactly is that achieved? The galvanization process involves immersing the steel in a bath of molten zinc, which sticks itself to the surface of the steel and creates a protective barrier and prevents rust and corrosion.
The Benefits Of Galvanised Steel
As we’ve already discovered, galvanised steel helps protect against corrosion, but that’s not the only benefit it offers. It also boasts a range of additional benefits that set it apart from other materials.
One of the biggest benefits is the added longevity, as the protective zinc layer significantly extends the life of the steel, reducing maintenance and replacement costs. Galvanised steel is also extremely versatile, so it can be used for a wide range of applications.
Another key advantage is the minimal amount of waste created in the process. As nearly all the zinc used in the coating adheres to the steel’s surface, this reduces the amount being used. And with galvanised steel extending the lifespan of the components it’s being used for which reduces the need to replace them, this is another reason it’s eco-friendly.
Historical Uses Of Galvanised Steel
You might not know it, but galvanised steel has a rich history and is actually partly responsible for the construction of many of the iconic structures we know and love.
Take the Eiffel Tower, for example, whose architects used galvanised steel to prop the giant construction up above Paris. Likewise, the Brooklyn Bridge and London are just a couple more examples of how this sturdy and versatile building material has helped shape our world.
On the battlefield, galvanised steel has also been used to manufacture weapons, ammunition and military vehicles, while the automotive industry has been utilising the material’s benefits for over a century.
Galvanised Steel In Bearings
When it comes to manufacturing bearings, galvanised steel is the ideal material for a number of reasons.
As bearings are often exposed to moisture, chemicals and other external elements, it’s crucial they’re made from material that’s protected from corrosion. Galvanised steel does just that.
Moreover, with its extended lifespan, galvanised steel reduces the need for frequent replacements in machinery and equipment, which saves money and keeps equipment going for longer.
But that’s not the only reason galvanised steel is perfect for bearings. As well as being able to withstand heavy loads due to its tough, durable nature, the smooth surface reduces friction, which leads to less wear and tear and ensures their longevity.
So that’s pretty much all you need to know about galvanised steel. Hopefully you now have a good understanding of what it is, how it’s made and what applications it’s used for. As you can see, this is a strong, versatile and long-lasting material that helps build constructions, machinery and appliances. Without it, the world as we know it would likely be a very different place.
If you’re in search of some galvanised steel bearings, we stock a wide range of options, from needle rollers and lazy susans to thrust bears and many more.