Built on the campus of The Ohio State University, the $1.1 billion expansion of the Wexner Medical Center will house the James Cancer Hospital and the Solove Research Institute and Critical Care Unit. It is the largest expansion in OSUs history. 

Hidden behind the gleaming glass and brick façade is a superstructure of galvanized steel. Hot-dip galvanizing was the only corrosion protection system trusted to protect the support system for the exterior façade. Covered on the outside with preformed brick and glass panels, the inside is covered by the interior finished walls; the galvanized steel will be quietly protecting the structure for decades. Since access is limited for inspection and even more difficult to repaint, galvanizing was the obvious choice. Knowing that hot-dip galvanizing has been proven to be the best corrosion protection for structural steel provides the peace of mind for the owners of this critical structure.    

Many complex tubular and structural sections were fabricated to support the panels. Proper venting was required so corrosion protection could be assured both inside and out. The experienced team of engineers, fabricators and the galvanizer collaborated on the design to maximize strength and corrosion protection.

Galvanizing was also a critical factor in the LEED designation of this important structure. Sustainable galvanized steel structures continue to be a part of forward thinking designs for all types of buildings.