Galvanized steel in asset design

Abstract

After Fabrication Hot Dip Galvanized Steel is used extensively in infrastructure and large engineering applications. Galvanized steel is increasingly being considered as a "composite material" rather than a component of a duplex system (coating on substrate) and its economic and physical advantages extend beyond its traditional role of corrosion protection. This paper will examine the economic and engineering advantages of using galvanized steel. It will be argued that the capabilities of hot dip galvanized steel should be assessed with all engineering materials, at the design and specification stage and not just as an after thought for asset corrosion protection. An emphasis on a more holistic and specific maintenance approach into the life cycle of assets and their component materials has great economic and efficiency benefits. The example used relates to studies performed on lattice towers found in power distribution.