Galvanized products use zinc coatings that serve as a sacrificial metal corroding preferentially to steel. Galvanized products have excellent bond characteristics to grout or concrete and do not require as much care in handling as epoxy coated products. However, galvanization of some products such as anchor rods is more expensive than epoxy coating and often has greater lead time. Hot dip galvanizing bars and fasteners should be done in accordance with ASTM A153. Typical galvanized coating thickness for steel bars and components is between 3 and 4 mils. High strength steel bars (150 ksi) must be mechanically cleaned and never acid washed to avoid problems associated with hydrogen embrittlement.
Powder Coated Products
Powder coated products use a free-flowing dry powder that does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. The powder may be a thermoplastic or a thermoset polymer. The coating is applied electrostatically and cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint. Powder coat finishes utilize an extensive pre-treatment process that cleans the metal using iron phosphate to ensure superior performance and adhesion of the powder coating. Durable Powder Coating services are available out of our JENNMAR Conveyors facility. For more information call (276) 883-5200.
Epoxy Coated Products
Fusion bonded epoxy coating of steel bars has been successfully employed in many applications to prevent corrosion due to the chemical stability of epoxy resins. Epoxy coating of bars and fasteners should be performed in accordance with ASTM A775 or ASTM A934. Coating thickness is generally specified between 7 to 12 mils. Epoxy coated bars and components are subject to damage if dragged on the ground or mishandled. Heavy plates and nuts are often galvanized even though the bar may be epoxy coated since they are difficult to protect against abrasion in the field. Epoxy coating patch kits can be made available in the field for repairing nicked or scratched epoxy surfaces.