Stainless steel vs. galvanised steel
Stainless steel and galvanised steel are both commonly used materials in construction. While they are similar in appearance they differ in terms of composition, weight, strength and application, although there is a certain amount of crossover between them.
Stainless steel is manufactured by a process that involves a mixture of at least 10% chromium and regular carbon steel in a molten state. Once it is cooled and hardened, the steel is acid-treated to remove any impurities from the surface. It is the addition of chromium that protects stainless steel from corrosion.
Galvanised steel is manufactured by a process that involves dipping steel into molten zinc which hardens to form a protective, anti-corrosive coating through the formation of zinc oxide.
The zinc coating on galvanised steel eventually wears off, and if is scratched or damaged in any way, it can become susceptible to rust. However, The zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, meaning that the remaining zinc will still protect the exposed steel.
For more information, see Galvanzing.
It's use is typically restricted to applications where there is minimal risk of damage. Galvanised steel is significantly less expensive than stainless steel, and is commonly used, for example, to make; nuts, bolts, fasteners and other fixings (although some components may be too large or too small to be hot-dipped), as well as being used in many common appliances.
For more information see: Galvanised steel.
In contrast, stainless steel retains its anti-corrosive qualities for longer, as the chromium forms an inextricable part of the steel material itself. As a result, stainless steel is more durable than galvanised steel, and is preferred for some uses in the construction of buildings, such as the construction of high-rise buildings. It does not rust even when scratched, so is commonly used for the working parts of hand tools such as saw blades. It is also more resistant to salt than zinc oxide, and so is more commonly used for applications in marine and coastal environments.
For more information see: Stainless steel.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.