Steel is the most flexible material used in industrial and commercial construction projects. By varying the composition of the metals that go into its making, different combinations of steel can be created that offer different properties to the final product. However, two main types of steel used in construction are structural steel and galvanized steel. While each of them has their advantages and disadvantages, here are a few reasons as to why structural steel is better than galvanized steel:
Composition
Structural steel is mainly composed of iron. Other metals like chromium and carbon are added to it, to enhance its specific properties like tensile and shear strength. This mixing gives us the flexibility of customizing structural steel as per the project demands. We can vary the mineral and metal content in it to achieve the properties we desire. Galvanized steel, on the other hand, is rigid regarding composition. It is steel dipped in zinc to obtain resistance to corrosion. The composition of galvanized steel cannot be altered, and it limits the applications where galvanized steel can be used.
Durability
As mentioned above, galvanized steel comes with a rigid composition, while structural steel offers a wide scope for enhancing its durability. This makes structural steel not only stronger but it also increases the strength-to-weight ratio of the steel. It is because of this increased ratio that structural steel products can be lighter in weight, and require a less extensive and less costly foundation to stand on. Galvanized steel is weaker as compared to structural steel. It doesn’t offer any such scope to enhance its intrinsic properties, thus, making it unsuitable in large-scale industrial applications, where both strength and costs need to be taken care of.
Chemical Properties
The zinc coating on galvanized steel limits its usage in some applications. Dezincification occurs, when it is exposed to nonferrous metals like yellow brass or copper. This process results in an electrolytic action between the two, causing chemical erosion of zinc. The loss of the zinc coating results in the steel being exposed to corrosion, leading to damage. Galvanized steel also cannot be used in underground applications unless it is properly covered. The damages on the surface of the steel can go undetected if the zinc coating remains intact. This might cause internal damages to structures like pipes and vents, which leave galvanized steel unsuitable for underground applications. Structural steel products, on the other hand, are not reactive with any metals. Hence, it can be paired with all kinds of construction materials, and is suitable for most of the underground applications without any fear of damage to its internal or external structure.
Applications
Galvanized steel, because of its reactive nature, can pose certain dangers. It cannot be used in the construction of water pipes. The lead in the steel can cause lead poisoning in the water, making the water toxic for consumption. The lead also corrodes quickly, thus, exposing the structure to further damage. Because of its weaker tensile strength, galvanized steel cannot be used for major industrial applications. Structural steel products, on the other hand, does not contain lead. This prevents any chances of poisoning and health hazards. It is better suited for high-end commercial applications because of its properties. It is also immune to corrosion and other structural defects.
You can read here for more such applications of structural steel. As mentioned above, structural steel surpasses galvanized steel on many levels. But, it is upon the type of the project that one must decide which type of steel to opt for. Contact us here for your structural steel products need for any industrial and commercial projects.
