We use a variety of methods to finished our metalwork products dependent upon the type or purpose of the product. A description of the main four methods used can be found below.

1. Galvanising

2. Powder Coating

3. Red Oxide

4. Gloss Paint

Galvanising: what is it?

Galvanising is the name of the process of applying zinc to mild steel to give it a strong and protective coating that lasts many years. Perfect for our range of for commercial and domestic metalwork – steel and wrought iron gates, steel railings, steel fencing, steel handrails, steel balconies, steel staircases, steel balustrades, steel trolleys, steel fire escapes etc.

The end finish means that it is extremely resilient and will provide a long-lasting, tough and low-maintenance coating. Importantly, galvanised coatings are also recyclable, giving the steel an almost continuous life span.

The Process of Galvanising

Preparation
The first step is to prepare the materials to be galvanised. The process involves subjecting materials to extremely high temperatures, and so the materials must be free from sealed tubes, blind corners or any other potentially explosive areas.

Treatment
Once prepared, the fabricated products are then immersed in an acid degreasing agent to remove any kind of grease or oil.

The metal is immersed in hydrochloric acid at ambient temperature in order to scour the steel surface and eradicate all mill scale and rust. This ensures a perfect surface for the galvanised coating.

Finally, the materials are rinsed to remove acid residues before being immersed in flux to ensure the efficient flow of zinc over the products’ internal and external surfaces.

Hot-dip galvanising
The metal is immersed in molten zinc at a temperature of 450ºC until it reaches the same high temperature as the zinc. The products are then gradually taken out to allow excess zinc to drain off.

Galvanising Results
The appearance of finished galvanised coatings can differ according to the chemical composition of the steel substrate being used.

The final effect can range from bright and shiny to a dull grey colour, dependent on silicon levels for example.

Whatever the external appearance, the galvanised coating still provides the same high level of protection. The process will safeguard mild steel against corrosion in an external UK environment for between 40 to 70 years, and for over 100 years in indoor locations.

Glasson Metalworks highly trained technicians utilise the most advanced production facilities to ensure our client benefit from the best quality and most reliable galvanised finishes.

Powder Coating

What is powder coating?

Powder coating is a relatively new, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wet painting. As the name suggests, powder coating is dry. Minute particles of powder are applied to metal objects or components using an electrostatic spray process. This causes the powder to adhere to the metal surface. After spraying, the component is transferred to a special oven and cured at temperatures up to 200 celsius. And so the powder is melted onto the metal creating a smooth, highly finished and durable coating.

Ideal for decorative or commercial metalwork

Any metal that can endure 200 celsius is suitable for powder coating, including iron, steel, aluminium and many other types of metal. Powder coating is perfect for our range of for commercial and domestic metalwork – steel and wrought iron gates, steel railings, steel fencing, steel handrails, steel balconies, steel staircases, steel balustrades, steel trolleys, steel fire escapes etc.

What are the advantages of powder coating?

Powder coating produces a thicker, smoother and more durable coating than conventional liquid coatings. The finished metalwork looks great and is less prone to chipping, marking and scratching.

Powder coating can be applied to practically all of our metalwork products and is suitable for both internal and external applications.

Powder coating is more cost effective and efficient than conventional wet painting, because there is virtually no wastage from overspray. Unused powder can be recycled and used again.

Powder coating is faster than traditional wet painting, where the product must dry between coats. With powder coating, the product is oven baked, so there is no need to wait for drying. In some cases the whole process can be completed in half an hour or less.

Powder coating is a more environmentally friendly process than other types of wet painting, producing no hazardous waste, odours or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Red Oxide

Red oxide primer is a lead-free, oil-based, high-quality, rust-resistant primer ideal for use on metal surfaces such as aluminium, iron and steel.

The corrosive resistant pigments of red oxide primer make it an ideal choice for use on commercial and domestic metalwork – steel and wrought iron gates, steel railings, steel fencing, steel handrails, steel balconies, steel staircases, steel balustrades, steel trolleys, steel fire escapes etc. to act as protection from exposure to chemical fumes, excessive heat and humidity, rain and wind.

Gloss Paint

After priming, if required, our products can be given a good coat of quality exterior metal paint, applied by hand or spray, before installation.

We are often asked by customers which is the best finish for their gates or balconies. Whatever finish is chosen, the best way to protect your steel products is to keep them away from oxygen and water and they will never rust.

	Friendly Service.		Personalised service
	Domestic and Industrial clients.		40 years in Welwyn Garden City.
	All types of steel fabrications.		Fully Insured & Local

Finishes

Please call for a quote 01707 262662  

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