Sinkhúðun

Sinkhúðun, also known as galvanisering, is a process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to prevent rusting. This is achieved by immersing the base metal into a bath of molten zinc. The zinc forms a metallurgical bond with the iron, creating a barrier that is significantly more resistant to corrosion than the base metal alone.

There are several methods of sinkhúðun. Hot-dip galvanizing is the most common and involves dipping the fabricated steel or iron into a molten zinc bath at approximately 450 degrees Celsius. Electrogalvanizing, also known as zinc plating, uses an electrolytic process to deposit a thin layer of zinc onto the steel. Other methods include mechanical galvanizing and zinc spraying, each offering different advantages for specific applications.

The effectiveness of sinkhúðun relies on the sacrificial nature of zinc. When exposed to corrosive elements, the zinc corrodes preferentially, protecting the underlying steel. This "sacrificial protection" allows the coating to prevent rust even if the surface is scratched or damaged, as the zinc will continue to protect the exposed steel.

Sinkhúðun is widely used across various industries, including construction, automotive, and manufacturing. It is applied to products such as structural steel, guardrails, pipes, fasteners, and automotive parts to extend their lifespan and reduce maintenance costs. The durability and cost-effectiveness of sinkhúðun make it a preferred choice for many outdoor and harsh environment applications.