Creating exceptional material performance with seasoned expertise

The galvanizing process has been refined and enhanced over the last 200 years. It represents the absolute best way to protect steel and ensure long-lasting, corrosion-free performance. Less costly than materials such as stainless steel and aluminum, galvanized steel delivers a significantly lower life cycle cost and requires no appreciable coating maintenance once installed.

A heavy footprint, except on the environment

In addition to being 100% recyclable, galvanized steel represents a sustainable material option that emits no volatile organic compounds or hazardous air pollutions in the treatment process. AZZ is committed to environmentally responsible operations, supporting LEED efforts through galvanized steel that contributes points toward certification. With 43 galvanizing locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, AZZ can help minimize transportation requirements while providing extensive resources available at the local level.

AZZ has broad industry experience, having performed hot-dip galvanizing for steel components that meet the performance requirements for a wide range of applications including:

• Agriculture
• Bridge & highway
• Construction
• Electrical utility
• Industrial
• Original equipment manufacturers
• Petrochemical
• Recreational
• Transportation

Cost-effective corrosion protection for small to mid-sized steel components

Spin galvanizing is a hot-dip process that utilizes a centrifuge anchored to a galvanizing kettle (or a spinner located above it) for immersing small to medium scale components in molten zinc.  A tightly bonded alloy coating forms on the steel, providing long-term, durable protection from the devastating effects of corrosion, while the centrifuge or spinner removes excess molten zinc to ensure coating uniformity, quality fit, and precise functionality.

The spin galvanizing process, combined with AZZ’s automated conveyor lines, are used for a wide range of small to medium-sized components including all thread rods, nut blanks, guardrail bolts, anchor bolts, washers, turnbuckles, and wheels.  The process provides high-performance corrosion protection and a consistent uniform coating.

Trusted Quality from AZZ

Smaller components can play a large role in maintaining a structure’s integrity and long-term performance.  We have perfected the spin/centrifuge process resulting in galvanizing excellence for small parts, fasteners, nails, staples, and structural pieces.  Our tightly controlled processes can ensure a quality nut fit on threads as small as 1/4″-20.  AZZ is North America’s leading provider of hot-dip galvanizing with more than four decades of experience and an expansive network of more than forty galvanizing locations.  Our spin operations are in adherence with standard specifications ASTM A153 and ASTM F2329, and ISO 9001 and 14001. 

Big News for Small Parts

AZZ is pleased to bring state-of-the-art spin capabilities to our AZZ Galvanizing-Houston facility. We are operational and equipped to serve a broad range of customers across Texas and Louisiana.  For added convenience, transportation is available and we’re happy to offer custom freight to and from D/FW, San Antonio, Austin, Waco, Baton Rouge and the Beaumont Golden Triangle.

A tested and proven galvanizing process ideal for modern applications

AZZ’s GalvXtra galvanizing process uses a proprietary formulation of molten metals that produces the most consistent coating thickness available while also creating an even, enduring finish. Part of a four-step, hot-dip galvanizing process, GalvXtra meets ASTM A123, ASTM A153, and ASTM B6 requirements to deliver high-quality zinc coatings on ferrous materials.

Preparation

Steel arriving at AZZ’s galvanizing plant undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure drainage and venting requirements are met. Once in the staging area, careful handling ensures the material is transported efficiently and effectively through the initial cleaning process.

Cleaning

A critical part of the process is cleaning, which begins with a complete immersion in a hot alkali solution, to remove organic compounds and dirt. Next acid pickling removes rust or scale and finally fluxing eliminates surface oxides to promote intermetallic development.

Hot-dip galvanizing

The steel is submerged in a bath of molten zinc until it reaches 840° F (449° C). At this point, the zinc reacts with the steel to form zinc/iron intermetallic layers on all surfaces inside and out.

Post-dip quality inspection

The galvanized steel is cleaned, weighed, and carefully inspected. Calibrated instrumentation ensures quality standards are met and coating thickness, appearance, and compliance with ASTM specifications are all reviewed before final approval.  Once completed, the galvanized product is ready to be shipped.  AZZ can assist you with your transportation requirements.

Formulated for superior coating performance

To ensure the highest performance from galvanized steel, AZZ utilizes a proprietary formulation of molten metals. The GalvXtra® formulation has been field tested and proven to provide a more uniform coating and an enduring finish through the resistance of the reaction of deoxidized steel to the molten zinc. GalvXtra meets international ASTM quality standards A123, ASTM A153, and ASTM B6 for zinc coatings on ferrous materials.

AZZ’s environmentally friendly, proprietary galvanizing process does not emit volatile organic compounds or hazardous air pollutants, and the use of sustainable, 100% recyclable galvanized steel as a construction material qualifies as a green building practice eligible for certification points under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system.