When it comes to buying steel for whichever application, you are likely to encounter two types of steel. These are galvanized steel vs stainless steel. What is the difference between these two types of steel? Which one is the best and which one should I use?
In this article, we are going to break down the difference between galvanized vs stainless steel. At the end of it, you will be wiser especially when it comes to choosing the best steel type.
Contents
What is Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is the type of steel metal that is coated with zinc to protect it from the chemical damage that is caused by different types of agents.
The enhanced properties of galvanized steel make it ideal for a wide range of applications.
What is Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a type of iron-based alloy that contains a significant percentage of chromium. In most cases, it is 11%. The main function of chromium is to protect the iron from rusting. It also gives the metal some heat resistant properties.
There are different types of stainless steel including carbon-silicon, sulfur, titanium nickel, selenium molybdenum, among others. This is the reason why stainless are denoted with numbers. For instance, there is a 304 type of grade steel among other numbers.
Material Composition: Galvanized vs Stainless
The difference between these two steels start from their composition. Galvanized steel is coated with a skinny layer of zinc that helps guard against corrosion. It is commonly utilized in nails, screws, bolts, nuts, and other forms of fasteners. Galvanized steel usually stands up well to prevent rust and damage that can be caused due to exposure to water.
Stainless steel, on the opposite hand, is formed by adding chromium to molten steel. Due to its strength and resistance to rust, stainless is that the primary metal utilized in construction. Stainless doesn’t mind water, albeit it’s salty, so it’s great for marine environments.
Preparation and processing: Galvanized vs Stainless Steel
Since the two steel types are made of different components, we can confidently say that their methods of preparation tend to differ.
When it comes to manufacturing galvanized steel, ordinary steel is dipped during a pool of molten zinc. This is often referred to as hot deep galvanization. Another method used for manufacturing the coating in many cases is electro-dipping, which may be a process during which the steel is dipped in an electrolyte solution containing zinc and makes use of electrolysis to make the coating.
For creating chrome steel, ordinary steel is mixed with chromium when both are in their molten state in various ratios depending upon the sort of chrome steel that is being manufactured.
After that, the mixture is allowed to cool. it hardens and turns into a solid-state. At this point, the composite is treated with an acid to get rid of any impurities which may be sticking to the surface.
Which one is stronger? Galvanized vs Stainless
Let’s say you want to use the steel metal for the heavy-duty application. It is quite obvious that the issue of strength won’t be ignored. You will want the steel type that will withstand.
Stainless steel is mechanically stronger than galvanized steel. The primary reason for this is stainless steel contains a significant percentage of chromium material which is embedded deep in the steel.
On the other hand, galvanized steel is weaker than its stainless counterpart. This is because the zinc coating only acts on the outer layer or surface protection.
Still in relation to the strength, we can conclude that stainless steel is more durable than the galvanized steel. After all, the more the strength the more the item will last.
Applications/Uses: Stainless vs Galvanized
Since stainless steel vs galvanized steel has different properties, their areas of application also tend to differ.
Galvanized steel, thanks to its weaker strength and cheaper price, is used for smaller-budget projects, generally, than chrome steel. Galvanized steel finds extensive utilized in the development of pipes and fittings in houses. This steel is also utilized in the manufacturing of air-conditioning equipment, creating metal roofs for houses, and chain link fencing.
There are a variety of products made from galvanized steel which make use of its ability to resist rusting, withstand the damage done by harsh weather and being stronger and lighter than many other metals.
Stainless steel, thanks to being costlier and also stronger, is employed for heavy and intense projects which require much work or thick components. Thus, chrome steel finds use within the building of skyscrapers, bridges, monuments and sculptures, cars, railways, airplanes, and lots of other high-end products.
Just by looking at the application areas of these steel materials, you can easily tell which one to go for.
Price: Galvanized vs Stainless
What is the cost of galvanized and stainless steel? By now you can easily tell which type of steel is cheap and which one is expensive.
Stainless steel is more expensive than galvanized steel. From the process of preparing, we have seen that the stainless steel process is quite involving and requires massive resources. This is completely opposite to the galvanized steel.
Despite the fact that galvanized steel is cheaper than stainless steel, this does not mean that it can replace the later. You can also find out from the manufacture the cost of these steel types.
Which one is the best? Galvanized vs Stainless Steel?
Probably you are wondering which one to choose between these two types of metals. The answer is there is none that is the best. These are two types of steel and are used for different purposes.
All you need is to analyze what you want to do with the steel and you will eventually choose the best steel for your application.
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