Types of galvanized iron pipes
The process of galvanizations can be done in two ways majorly
Hot dipped galvanized iron pipes
So the name indicates that there is the use of high temperature in this process. So the process starts with cleaning the carbon pipes mechanically or electrically to ensure that there is no dust present. After that carbon steel pipes are dipped into the zinc solution wherein the temperature is up to 500 degrees Celsius.
As the process proceeds the zinc attaches with carbon steel to give it anti-corrosive properties. They are considered to be very effective anti-corrosive. They have been used for now more than 180 years.
They are widely used in industries. The hot-dipped galvanized pipes have a thickness of 35μm and could go up to 650μm. They are used to transfer low-pressure liquids or gases. Some of the applications are mentioned below.
Applications
- Construction site
- Chemical industries
- Coal mining
- Petrochemical industries
- Automobile industries
- Power generation industries
Cold galvanized pipes
Cold galvanized pipes are also called electro-galvanized pipes. As the whole process is carried out electrically. The process is carried out by the electrolysis of iron pipes with zinc.
The iron pipe is kept into a solution composed of zinc and a cathode connected to the electrolytic apparatus, placed opposite the tube member zinc plate, connected to the electrolysis the positive power equipment, the use of electric current from the positive to the negative directional movement will be in a layer of zinc deposited on pipe fittings, cold-plated fittings are galvanized after processing the first. The cold galvanized has a very thin layer of zinc of thickness5-15μm.
Applications
- Small industries
- Normal repair work
- Interior construction
- Home decor
- GI pipes should not come in contact with lime or lime- mortar. They should be treated with anti-corrosive paints.
- Whenever a pipe passes through a wall, provision of expansion should be made.
- Under the floors, the pipes must be placed in the layer of sand to allow expansion.
- Chemical transportation
- Water treatment industries
- Fire safety types of equipment
- Sewerage
- Irrigation system
- Prevents corrosion
- Low maintenance cost
- Proves them to be reliable
- Versatility
- Ease in inspection
- Faster accomplishment process
- Galvanized pipes may have some proportion of lead, this corrodes quickly and may reduce the lifespan of the pipe.
- They may leave rough patches inside the pipes, which may result in damage or failure in the pipes.
- They could be proved expensive in a situation where there is serious damage
| Basis of difference | Hot dipped galvanized | Cold galvanized |
| Operation temperature | 480-500 degrees Celsius | Room temperature |
| Thickness | 35μm -650μm | 5-15μm |
| Surface smoothness | It has a smooth surface | Has a rough surface |
| price | They are relatively expensive | They are cost-effective |
| Adhesion | They have a strong adhesion with the metal. This helps the zinc layer to stay for a longer time. | They have poor adhesion due to which there are chances of the layer to fall off. |
What points should be kept in mind while the installation of galvanized iron pipes?
Application of galvanized iron pipes
What are the Advantages of GI pipes?
The non galvanized pipes react to oxygen and water which cause corrosion and results in the formation of rust. But the process of galvanization helps to form a layer of zinc on the outer side. Thus resulting in giving it an anti-corrosive property.
The galvanized iron pipes are very durable and effective this is due to the toughness and rigidity of the material. They are highly functional. The benefit of galvanized pipes could be realized on a long-term basis as they don’t get corroded and prohibit leakages. They are not be maintained frequently.
The process of galvanization meets the strict criterion for a good material quality check. Due to this, it has been largely used for heavy industries ad construction sites. This shows the reliability which it states. They have a huge number of advantages over cons.
The galvanized pipes are used from primary sector industries to secondary sector industries. They are available in various diameters and lengths which could be also customized as per the requirements of the customer and are more durable than any other alternatives. This shows their versatility across the industries.
The coating of galvanized pipes could be easily inspected manually by eyes. There are very simple non-destructing thickness techniques that are very easy to perform with a minimal requirement of time. This solves the problem of frequent inspection and the cost incurred while doing so.
As galvanized steel members are received they are ready for use. No time is lost on-site in surface preparation, painting, and inspection. When assembly of the structure is complete, it is immediately ready for use, or the next construction stage.
What are the disadvantages of galvanized pipes?
What is the lifespan of a galvanized pipe?
The minimum lifespan of a galvanized pipe is 25-30 years in an extreme situation wherein the pipe is exposed to critical atmospheric conditions with high moisture and temperature. But generally, in moderate conditions, they can easily last up to 40-50 years. If the pipes are well galvanized they may even last for a longer time.
