Winco Stamping wants to make the material selection process easier for your next metal stamping project. One of the choices offered by Winco is pre-galvanized steel. This type of steel offers key advantages and benefits that other materials don’t, such as enhanced corrosion resistance.
Diving into stamping services? Take these pointers from us about the advantages and some downsides of pre-galvanized steel stamping.
What is Pre-Galvanized Steel?
Before going into all the pros and cons, it’s important to understand what the material actually is.
Pre-galvanized steel is steel coated with a layer of zinc. The zinc bonds to the iron and creates a coating that protects the metal from rust. Pre-galvanized steel is one of the most common metals used for moisture-resistant products. Additionally, it’s a cost-effective solution compared to many other materials.
Best Design Practices
If you know you’re going to be working with pre-galvanized steel ahead of the design process, it makes things easier while crafting sketches or computer drawings. However, keep these best practices in mind:
- Maintain a minimum inside bend radius that’s equivalent to the sheet thickness. This is meant to prevent the zinc coating from cracking.
- Maintain consistent wall thickness as well to allow for uniform bending and enhanced tolerances.
Product Applications for Pre-Galvanized Steel Stamping
Pre-galvanized steel can be used across a variety of industries, most commonly:
Lighting
Many different kinds of lighting fixtures, switches, and covers can be made through pre-galvanized steel stamping services. This material selection is chosen because of its strength and ability to withstand exposure to potential moisture.
Furniture
Pre-galvanized steel is a popular choice in the furniture industry for structural components due to its moisture resistance and corrosion resistance. These properties make pre-galvanized steel an option for both indoor and outdoor furniture.
Heavy Equipment
Construction and machining companies use pre-galvanized steel for various applications such as machine parts, enclosures, and frames.
Agriculture Parts
Pre-galvanized steel works well for irrigation equipment because of its weather-resistant properties. It’s also durable enough to be used for farming and production equipment.
Automation Parts
Pre-galvanized steel is a cost-effective alternative to stainless steel for robotics and industrial automation equipment. Many manufacturers increase ROI by making the switch to durable pre-galvanized steel.
Key Benefits of Pre-Galvanized Steel Stamping
Pre-galvanized steel offers numerous benefits as a material selection for metal stamping manufacturing:
- Enhanced corrosion resistance
- Cost-effective solution compared to stainless steel, brass, and aluminum
- Increased durability
Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them
With any material selection, there are potential challenges that can arise. But there are ways to overcome them, starting by working with an experienced manufacturer who has the knowledge and the team to get the job done.
Cut Concerns
Cut edges and pierced or formed areas are exposed during the stamping process. These areas are not protected by the zinc coating and should be treated.
Tool Wear
While the zinc coating is one of the largest advantages of pre-galvanized steel, it does wear down equipment. Equipment used to stamp this material should undergo regular maintenance. With Winco’s quick change tooling, it’s easy to stay ahead without delays.
Why Winco Stamping is the Right Partner for Pre-Galvanized Steel Stamping Services
Winco Stamping is an industry leader in the metal stamping market. Since 1948, we’ve delivered quality products that are built to last. Pre-galvanized steel is one of the materials we work with on a daily basis.
Backed by our ISO 9001 certification, you’ll see that quality is at the core of everything Winco Stamping does. Looking for a smarter, more cost-effective material? Let’s talk pre-galvanized steel.
Reach out to us for an initial conversation and see how we can best serve you.
