Hot-dip galvanizing or cold galvanizing with GALVANOL? They are not competitors: they complement each other. This comparison helps you decide which one to use in each case.
| GALVANOL (cold galvanizing) | Hot-dip galvanizing | |
|---|---|---|
| Application method | Brush, roller, spray gun or spray, in the workshop or on site | Immersion in molten zinc (~450 °C) at the plant |
| Composition | 96% zinc in dry film | Zinc-iron alloy and pure zinc layers |
| Protection | Barrier + cathodic protection | Barrier + cathodic protection |
| Thickness | ~40 µm per layer; 2–3 layers (max. 200 µm) | Depending on the thickness of the part (ISO 1461) |
| Part size | No limit | Limited by the size of the kettle |
| Welding and drilling on site | Yes, they are treated immediately | No; they must be repaired afterwards |
| Heat distortion | None | Possible in thin sheets |
| Standards | ISO 1461 and ASTM A780 (repair), ISO 3549, ISO 12944 testing | ISO 1461 |
| CE marking | Not mandatory for protecting steel. Only mandatory if used to protect concrete reinforcement (EN 1504-7) | Depends on the finished steel product (e.g. structures according to EN 1090) |
When to choose each one
- Hot-dip galvanizing: large batches of new parts that fit in the kettle and will not be modified afterwards.
- GALVANOL: large or pre-assembled structures, welding and cutting on site, repair of damaged galvanizing, replenishment of aged galvanizing and maintenance work. See cold galvanizing vs anti-corrosion paint.
The most common approach is to combine them: hot-dip galvanizing at the plant and touching up with GALVANOL anything that is cut, welded or damaged during assembly.
Regarding CE marking: in the EU it is only mandatory for construction products covered by a harmonized standard or a European Technical Assessment (EU Regulation 305/2011). Anti-corrosion paints for steel are not covered by a harmonized standard, so they do not require it. The exception is the protection of reinforcement in concrete repair, regulated by the harmonized standard EN 1504-7.
For specific project requirements, consult the manufacturer, the design consultant or the competent authority.
Ready to protect your steel?
GALVANOL contains 96% zinc in dry film, has been tested in an ENAC-accredited laboratory according to ISO 12944, and complies with ISO 1461 and ASTM A780. We manufacture it in Spain and ship it within 24/72 hours, free of charge to mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands on orders over €50.
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