Hot Dip Galvanized CHS Steel

Hot-dip galvanised CHS steel is steel tubing that has had a protective coating applied to it. This coating is made from zinc, which acts as a sacrificial anode. In simpler terms, this means that the zinc coating corrodes rather than the steel itself. Some galvanised coatings include additional ingredients to encourage this corrosion, providing extra protection for the steel underneath.

The most common way for the coating to be applied is with the hot-dip galvanising method, where the steel sections are literally dipped into a hot zinc solution. This method ensures a nice, uniformly thick coating that provides excellent protection against corrosion in outdoor environments.

Yes, galvanised steel is relatively easy to cut. However, it is important to wear protective equipment when cutting this type of steel as the fumes from the zinc coating can be hazardous to your health. We offer a cut-to-length service at the InfraBuild Steel Centre for all of our sectional products, but if your team has the right equipment and experience, there is no reason why you cannot cut tubular steel or plate steel products that have been hot-dip galvanized. If you doubt the correct cutting procedures, please don’t hesitate to contact your nearest branch for advice.

Hot-dip galvanized steel will take a very long time to start corroding in most environments, but, as with almost all types of steel, it will eventually begin to corrode. The length of time that it takes for corrosion to affect the steel core will depend on various environmental factors and other conditions. In some cases, it may be 50 years or more before you have to worry about such corrosion taking place. Surface corrosion (corrosion that affects the zinc acting as a sacrificial anode) will begin much sooner, but this is by design. The corrosion of the zinc coating is what protects the steel core for many years or decades.

Hot dip galvanized steel pipe, or tubing is used in a wide variety of outdoor applications. It was once very commonly used as water supply piping and today is used for scaffolding, fencing and in many different types of structural and construction applications.

Hot-dip galvanised CHS steel can be welded with ease, using conventional electric arc welding equipment and methods. For a professional, experienced welder, there is relatively little difference between welding an uncoated steel section and one that has undergone the hot-dip galvanising process. However, it is essential to remove the zinc coating before welding, which can be quickly achieved by grinding it off.