Powering up galvanized steel uptake in the electricity industry
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Hot-dip galvanized steel plays a critical role in corrosion protection in power generation, ranging from transmission and distribution of power to traditional and renewable sources. “In this way we can guarantee the longevity and cost-effective of power projects for future generations,” says Norton.
Most power supply steel structures, whether for generation, transmission, or distribution, are designed for an average lifespan of 50 years. These structures are often subjected to a range of arduous atmospheric environments. All steel structures throughout the power grid therefore have a need for durable, corrosion resistant and long-lasting protection.
Hot dip galvanized steel has been deployed throughout the power grid for generations, as it is the anti-corrosion coating of choice on many structures. While it has been used extensively in coal, nuclear, and natural gas facilities, it is also commonly increasingly finding favour in renewable energy applications, for example as the steel framework for solar and PV panels and wind turbine pylons.
Here galvanized steel, perhaps with a duplex coating system, is ideal for final installation in remote locations without any further surface treatment or monitoring, providing immunity to weather degradation, compatibility with local corrosive conditions, coating toughness and cathodic protection properties that provide steel corrosion protection in tough, arduous conditions, together with minimal maintenance.
In terms of power transmission structures, steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio that allows for longer spans without poles that can halt line cascades during severe weather events. Steel pylons are often used in higher voltage transmission lines, but it is now more common to see steel distribution poles being used to strengthen a line where longer span lengths are necessary.
Galvanized steel has the highest recycled content (93%) of any construction material and has a 98% reclamation rate. Unlike many materials that are down-cycled into a lesser product, galvanized steel is multi-cycled, which means it can be recycled repeatedly without the loss of chemical or physical properties, making it a true cradle-to-cradle material.
“Therefore, hot dip galvanized steel allows for the sustainable development of power infrastructure,” says Norton. Environmental impact is minimised by utilising natural, abundant, and recyclable steel and zinc. As galvanized steel requires no maintenance throughout the lifespan of an installation, it reduces the carbon footprint significantly. Zinc itself is natural and 100% recyclable with no loss of properties.
REFERENCES
‘Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel for Power Infrastructure’
https://galvanizeit.org/hot-dip-galvanized-steel-for-power-infrastructure/introduction
‘Hot Dip Galvanizing in Renewable Energy Applications’ by Frank E. Goodwin, International Zinc Association, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344825965_Hot_Dip_Galvanizing_in_Renewable_Energy_Applications
Pull quote
“Hot dip galvanized steel allows for the sustainable development of power infrastructure.” – Simon Norton,Manager,Africa Desk, International Zinc Association
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Ends
Notes to the Editor
To download hi-res images for this news article, please visit http://media.ngage.co.za and click the International Zinc Association link to view the company’s press office.
The IZA is the only global industry association dedicated exclusively to the interests of zinc and its users. Operating internationally and locally (Africa Desk: zinc [at] iafrica [dot] com) through its regional affiliates, the IZA helps sustain the long-term global demand for zinc and its markets by promoting such key end uses as corrosion protection for steel and zinc as being essential in human health and crop nutrition. IZA’s main programmes are Sustainability & Environment, Technology & Market Development and Communications.
In South Africa, the IZA plays a vital role in establishing the basis for the successful revitalisation of the zinc industry by increasing awareness of zinc and its applications and benefits in key sectors and markets, which will ultimately translate into the increased uptake of zinc.
International Zinc Association Contact
Simon Norton
Manager, Africa Desk
Phone: (021) 788 9980
Cell: 082 831 2924
Email: zinc [at] iafrica [dot] com
Web: www.zinc.org
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NGAGE Public Relations
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Cell: 074 212 1422
Email: rachel [at] ngage [dot] co [dot] za
Web: www.ngage.co.za
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