DuraGal - Duragal Plus - Hot-Dipped Galvanized Steel

DuraGal Vs Duragal Plus Vs Hot-Dipped Galvanized Steel

DuraGal, Duragal Plus, and hot-dipped galvanized steel are different types of coatings applied to steel to provide corrosion protection. Here's a comparison between the three:

1. Coating Process:

   • DuraGal: DuraGal is a trademarked name for a type of pre-galvanized steel. It involves applying a zinc coating to the steel before it is formed into its final shape. The coating is usually lighter and thinner compared to hot-dipped galvanizing.
   • Duragal Plus: Duragal Plus is a proprietary coating developed by OneSteel (now known as Liberty Steel). It is a unique zinc-aluminum-magnesium (ZAM) coating applied to steel. The coating provides enhanced corrosion resistance compared to traditional galvanized coatings.
   • Hot-dipped galvanized steel: In this process, the steel is immersed in a bath of molten zinc, which metallurgically bonds with the steel surface, forming a thick layer of zinc coating.

2. Thickness and Appearance:

   • DuraGal: The zinc coating applied in DuraGal is relatively thinner compared to hot-dipped galvanizing. It creates a smoother, shiny surface on the steel.
   • Duragal Plus: The Duragal Plus coating is usually thicker than DuraGal and provides a more robust corrosion protection. It can have a matte or shiny appearance, depending on the specific product.
   • Hot-dipped galvanized steel: Hot-dipped galvanizing results in a thicker zinc coating compared to both DuraGal and Duragal Plus. It forms a uniform, dull gray or matte finish on the steel surface.

3. Corrosion Resistance:

   • DuraGal: While DuraGal offers corrosion resistance, the thinner coating may be less effective in highly corrosive environments or over an extended period compared to hot-dipped galvanized steel or Duragal Plus.
   • Duragal Plus: Duragal Plus provides enhanced corrosion resistance due to the addition of aluminum and magnesium in the coating. It offers improved protection against corrosion in various environments.
   • Hot-dipped galvanized steel: Hot-dipped galvanized steel provides excellent corrosion resistance, even in harsh environments. The thick zinc coating acts as a physical barrier between the steel and the surrounding atmosphere, protecting it from rust and corrosion.

4. Weldability:

   • DuraGal: DuraGal steel is often preferred for welding applications because the thinner coating is easier to remove locally before welding, reducing the release of zinc fumes during the process.
   • Duragal Plus: Duragal Plus can be welded, but it may require specific welding procedures and techniques due to the presence of the ZAM coating.
   • Hot-dipped galvanized steel: Welding hot-dipped galvanized steel can be more challenging due to the presence of the thick zinc coating. The high heat of welding can vaporize the zinc, leading to the release of harmful fumes.

5. Cost:

   • DuraGal: DuraGal is generally more cost-effective compared to hot-dipped galvanized steel and Duragal Plus, as it involves a simpler coating process.
   • Duragal Plus: Duragal Plus is typically priced higher than DuraGal due to its improved corrosion resistance and added alloy elements.
   • Hot-dipped galvanized steel: The process of hot-dipped galvanizing tends to be more expensive compared to DuraGal and Duragal Plus due to the additional steps involved.

The choice between DuraGal, Duragal Plus, and hot-dipped galvanized steel depends on factors such as the required level of corrosion resistance, the specific application, budget considerations, and any welding requirements.