Hot-dip galvanizing is one of the most economical, maintenance-free corrosion protection systems available. Like any other manufacturing process, hot-dip galvanized steel requires an inspection of the finished product to ensure compliance with applicable specifications. The inspection process requires a clear understanding of specification requirements and compliance measurement techniques to make an accurate assessment.
A key feature of hot-dip galvanized (HDG) products is durability, which yields decades of maintenance-free performance. For any environment, the time to first maintenance of HDG steel is directly proportional to the thickness of the zinc coating. Coating thickness is an important requirement in the specification and effectiveness of hot-dip galvanizing as a corrosion protection system. However, measuring coating thickness is only one of the many specification requirements in the inspection process. Other key requirements include adherence, appearance, and finish.
Revised in 2016, this 24-page instructional guide covers the inspection procedures for hot-dip galvanized steel including visual inspection guide with photo examples, sampling techniques, thickness and uniformity measurement, adherence and appearance.
The AGA has translated this publication into Spanish. This publication is only available to download as a PDF.
The AGA also has a comprehensive mobile inspection application to aid in the inspection of hot-dip galvanized steel. More information regarding the app can be found on our website at galvanizeit.org/mobile.
Copies of this resource are available for purchase. Architects, engineers, and other specifiers in North America may request a single copy of any publication at no charge, unless otherwise indicated. Multiple copies require a $25.00 (US funds) minimum order, plus shipping and handling. Prepayment is required. (Member galvanizers are not eligible for complimentary printed copies and require a $75.00 minimum order.) Non-member galvanizers must contact the AGA directly at 720-361-4483.
Corrosion and repair of corrosion damage are multi-billion dollar problems - the latest estimates show metallic corrosion costs the United States approximately $423 billion annually ($52 billion in Canada), or about 3% of each nations GDP. However,... View Details »
A suggested specification in CSI format for hot-dip galvanizing after fabrication. This guide aids in developing a better hot-dip galvanizing specification. MS Word Document - 13 pages. 2022. Not for sale. Available for Download Only. View Details »