Hot-dip galvanizing is specified for all types of projects from bridges to communication towers and even artistic statues. Although not as high profile, trucks and trailers represent a huge market for galvanizing and the benefits are apparent on a more personal level. Owner/operators deal with the variety of maintenance and repair issues vehicles inevitably have but with hot-dip galvanizing, corrosion is one less thing they have to worry about.

Alex E. Paris Contracting (AEP) has been in business since 1928 offering a variety of construction services across Pennsylvania. Due to its line of work, the company’s large fleet of vehicles and equipment are put to the test in very rugged environments. Paint jobs do not last very long on the company’s trucks & trailers due to the rough service, making them vulnerable to corrosion. Maintenance and rust issues plague them from the first day of use due to the light gauge material, road grime and salt. AEP determined a different corrosion protection method would provide a good return on investment if its vehicles lasted longer without costly maintenance.

For a recent project, AEP brought a flatbed trailer to a local galvanizer for protection. The main body of the roll back bed, sub-frame, and cab protector were galvanized to greatly prolong its life in anticipation of the conditions it would be put to work in. In addition to corrosion protection, the immersion process of hot-dip galvanizing allowed the zinc to reach areas paint could not cover. Items such as the box tubing were therefore protected inside and out. The galvanized finish is also very durable and abrasion resistant so it will not only perform well but look good as well.

AEP looks forward to cutting down maintenance costs associated to rust and rot due to the protection hot-dip galvanizing provides. The company anticipates the trailer will now outlast the truck itself. As the country looks for ways to reduce waste and help the environment, hot-dip galvanizing can play an integral role. If galvanizing is used more frequently throughout the transportation industry, vehicles will last longer and avoid the junk yard prematurely. Also, when the vehicle does reach the end of its life, galvanized components can be 100% recycled.