Metallizing from A to Zinc

November 17, 2015

Category: Painting and Metallizing  -  Published by: Michel Pettigrew

Since turn of the 20^th century, thermal spray coatings, more commonly known as metallizing, have been used in a broad range of applications. However, this corrosion protection technology has not been widely used in the bridge industry until more recently because of more competitive pricing and updated technologies.

Using current technology and modern application techniques, metallized bridge coatings have expected lifespans of at least 20 to 30 years. Combined with an inspection program and limited periodic maintenance, a sprayed metal coating can even provide an indefinite service life well in excess of 30 years.

Key Takeaways:

• Metallizing provides both barrier and galvanic (self-sacrificing) protection from corrosion
• No size and/or shape limitations reducing the needs of field splices and reducing transportation costs
• Emits no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and 100% recyclable
• Metallizing is a cold process requiring no dry time and steel can be handled almost immediately, reducing schedule and increasing fabricator throughput
• According to the FHWA, in United States, 99.9% zinc thermal spray coatings pass Class B slip performance requirements

View the Video

For more information, visit the Painting and metallizing section on our website or contact us.