Product Introduction

Zincalume steel is a premium product developed by BlueScope Steel Private Limited. Unlike the Galvanized steel (which is only Zinc coated), Zincalume steel stands out due to its remarkable inherent attribute of Zinc-Aluminium alloy coating characteristics which gives it a longer life four times the galvanized steel.

Zincalume steel is widely used in construction industry where long life is crucial. It can be seen in projects around the world where it has been successfully used for roofing and wall applications.The unique attribute of the Zincalume steel is the material’s inherent High-Strength Steel. To further elaborate, figure 3.1 clearly illustrates the corrosion protection mechanism of Zincalume steel.

Material Details

As shown in figure 3.2 and 3.3 the base steel of Zincalume is protected with the ZincAluminium alloy coating which gives both Zinc protection and barrier protection of Aluminium.

To further strengthen, a special passivation treatment coating is laid, which extensively reduces the rate of oxidation and resultant discoloration. The resin coating on top gives a smooth and glossy finish and resistance to early corrosion with heat reflectivity due to its shiny surface.

Corrosion Protection Mechanism

The Zincalume steel’s success for corrosion resistance is best illustrated in the below photomicrograph (Figure. 3.1). The Zinc rich region is locked in micro pockets within the aluminum rich matrix. This addition of Aluminum alloy coating and the way it melds with the zinc coating provides three key benefits:

  1. Aluminium has always been known to have excellent anti corrosion properties. Thus, to realize the full benefit of aluminium it needs to be evenly spread across the strip and equally distributed with the zinc coating.
  2. The zinc coating plays crucial role if the sheet is scratched or the edge is exposed, zinc will sacrifice itself and protect the exposed edge until it is consumed entirely.
  3. The adjacent pockets of zinc rich areas are in electrical contact with the steel and they are then activated to provide continual galvanic protection.

Compatibility

The forces of nature are constantly at work contributing to the corrosion of the roofs. The Zincalume steel has been monitored for its performance across a wide range of climate conditions using exposure tests.

By harnessing the findings of these testings, and with continuous research and development, Zincalume steel ensures that it is able to withstand harsh environments even in the SAARC region for longer period and it performs remarkably well in Maldivian environment.

With its remarkable performance of AZ150 (Zinc Aluminium Alloy Coating) and G550 steel (High Strength Steel), customers can be confident that they have the right solution for their project.