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At the heart of multiple manufacturing, construction and architectural projects, stands galvanised steel. A marvel of modern engineering, it’s created through a meticulous process of coating steel in a protective layer of zinc. This gives the final product a unique shimmer and also a formidable defence against steel corrosion and rust. Its versality and durability make it indispensable and long-lasting. Let’s take a closer look at what is galvanised steel? Different types, applications and benefits of galvanised steel, what’s galvanised iron sheet, and more.
What is galvanised steel?
Galvanised steel meaning: Let’s start with the definition of galvanised steel.
Galvanised steel is standard steel coated in zinc. Distinguished by a unique zinc coating (which has earned it the name of zinc plated steel), galvanised steel is known for its unique properties. It is durable and corrosion resistant, making it ideal for outdoor applications and construction projects. It’s also robust and comes with a long lifespan. Its zinc coating gives it a protective layering especially from environmental elements, including humidity and moisture.
In short, galvanised steel can be used in building bridges, roads, balconies, apartments, sculptures and more. That is, if the product is in an outdoor setting or naturally exposed to moisture and other environmental aspects, causing corrosion, galvanised steel is the answer.
Also read: Tips to reduce steel corrosion
Galvanised sheet meaning:
Galvanised steel sheet or galvanised steel are one of the most popular forms available in the market.
These can be made available in different thickness (e.g., 0.14mm, 0.80mm), size (e.g., 8ft, 12ft, 16ft, 18ft), and length (can often be customised). They can also be corrugated or plain galvanised sheets.
Also read: What is corrugated meaning?
Daily price galvanised steel per kg – Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Ahmedabad
In India, the average range of galvanised steel rate per kg varies widely between ₹60 to ₹75 per kg. Various factors such as city/state, thickness, type, grade/quality, and market dynamics (including availability) impact price.
For accurate galvanised steel price, it’s advisable to contact local steel suppliers, manufacturers and sellers.
Particulars | Galvanised steel price per kg | Galvanised steel price per tonne |
Galvanised steel | ₹68 – ₹72 per kg | ₹68,000 – ₹72,000 per tonne |
Galvanised steel coil | ₹50 – ₹53 per kg | ₹50,000 – ₹53,000 per tonne |
Galvanised steel coil (construction grade) | ₹68 – ₹72 per kg | ₹68,000 – ₹72,000 per tonne |
Galvanised steel strip | ₹84 – ₹87 per kg | ₹84,000 – ₹87,000 per tonne |
Galvanised steel sheet (commercial) | ₹68 – ₹72 per kg | ₹68,000 – ₹72,000 per tonne |
Hot dipped galvanised steel sheet | ₹50 – ₹54 per kg | ₹50,000 – ₹54,000 per tonne |
Pre-painted galvanised steel sheet (coloured) | ₹87 – ₹92 per kg | ₹87,000 – ₹92,000 per tonne |
Galvanised plates (construction grade) | ₹67 – ₹71 per kg | ₹67,000 – ₹71,000 per tonne |
Galvanised steel tape | ₹58 – ₹63 per kg | ₹58,000 – ₹63,000 per tonne |
Galvanised steel rod | ₹92 – ₹96 per kg | ₹92,000 – ₹96,000 per tonne |
Galvanised flat iron steel | ₹50 – ₹55 per kg | ₹50,000 – ₹55,000 per tonne |
*Prices are for reference only. Will vary by brands, location, seller etc. Does not include taxes, GST, freight, transport, packaging and other charges. Please check with your manufacturer/supplier directly for the latest prices.
What is galvanised steel used for?
There is high demand for galvanised steel in India due to its corrosion resistance and durability, which significantly extends the lifespan of construction and infrastructure development projects.
Its use supports India’s diverse climate conditions, from coastal regions to industrial areas ensuring structural integrity and cost-effectiveness. This naturally makes galvanised steel sheets, coils, rods and other types highly preferred by businesses aiming for quality and sustainability.
Also read: Interim Budget 2024 – Opportunities for steel sector growth
Galvanised steel applications:
Here are some of the applications of galvanised sheets, galvanised rods, galvanised coils and other forms.
- Construction: Used for building frames, roofing, and fences. This is due to its corrosion resistance properties, in turn enhancing the building’s longevity and structural integrity. (Also read: Steel roofing sheets)
- Automotive sector: Galvanised products are used build vehicle body parts due to its anti-rusting properties. Moreover, it also provides durability and safety. (Also read: Steel in automotive sector)
- Agriculture sector: Galvanised steel is used in the agriculture sector for making equipment and structures. Examples include, silos, irrigation systems, and greenhouses.
- Electrical infrastructure: Steel is used in manufacturing electrical conduit and cable trays, safeguarding electrical systems against environmental damage.
What are the different types of galvanised steel?
In the previous sections, we have looked at what is galvanised steel? As can be guessed, there are different types of galvanised steel, that impact the galvanised steel rate in India.
Some of the popular forms of galvanised steel are:
- Galvanised steel tube
- Galvanised steel sheet
- Galvanised steel plate
- Galvanised steel pipes
- Galvanised steel coils
- Galvanised iron sheet (Also read: GI sheet weight – How to calculate weight in kg)
When it comes to galvanising, there are different methods used. What offers protection to the steel sheet or plate is the thickness of the zinc oxide coating applied on it. When buying a galvanised product therefore, it’s advisable to know about the different types of galvanised steel, their uses and properties, and make the right purchase decision.
Galvanising method types:
- Hot-Dip galvanised steel: This method involves dipping and coating steel in molten zinc or zinc alloy. There are two types – batch and continuous. It has excellent corrosion resistance and is usually used in outdoor construction projects bridges and fences. This is the most popular type of galvanising.
- Electrogalvanised steel: This type of galvanisation offers a smooth finish. This makes it ideal for home appliances and automotive parts where aesthetics matter. Instead of dipping the steel into molten zinc, an electrolyte solution with electric current is used to provide the zinc coating.
- Prepainted galvanised steel: This is the method popularly used in roofing solutions and wall panels for buildings. It comes pre-coated with paint. (Also read: About corrugated roof sheets)
- Galvannealed steel: As can be guessed from its name, this method involves annealing along with galvanising. That is, the steel is hop-dipped in molten zinc first, and instantaneously annealed. This makes this type of galvanised steel perfect for painting. It’s also popularly used across the automobile sector for auto-body parts and appliance manufacturing. The final look of steel is matte finished.
What is a galvanised iron sheet?
A discussion on the galvanised steel meaning, often brings up the meaning of GI sheet or galvanised iron sheet.
Galvanised iron is a robust material. Pure iron is ductile as it contains no carbon, whereas cast iron containing small carbon amount is brittle. Galvanised iron therefore, is iron that has undergone the galvanisation process and is coated with a thin layer of zinc. This protective layer shields the iron from rust and corrosion, hence extending the lifespan of the iron and iron products.
GI sheets are naturally used in a host of applications including buildings, water and gas pipeline, agricultural tools and outdoor furniture.
Also read: First iron and steel industry in India
What is the difference between galvanised steel and galvanised iron (GI)?
On that note, let’s take a look at the difference between galvanised steel and GI sheets to help you make the right choice for your business.
Difference between galvanised sheet steel and galvanised iron sheets:
Particulars | Galvanised steel | Galvanised iron sheet |
Base metal | Made of standard steel with a layer of zinc coating (or zinc alloy)
Note – Steel is a composite material and is made out of iron and carbon components |
Made of iron and sheets are zinc coated
Also read: Difference between iron and steel |
Corrosion resistance | As base material is steel, these are high on rust and corrosion resistance due to the basic properties of steel | Less corrosion resistant when compared to steel, but since it comes with a protective layering of zinc coating, it provides higher corrosion resistance than ordinary iron sheets |
Strength and durability | Malleable, strong and durable and suitable for building firm structural components | Comparatively less strong and malleable and hence suitable for less structural applications |
Application | Used in a wide range of industries and applications including roads, bridges, buildings, etc. across construction, engineering, manufacturing, automotive, etc. | Commonly used in roofing, pipelines, fencing and decorative applications such as outdoor furniture |
Cost | More expensive than GI sheets due to base material and processing expenses | Less expensive than galvanised steel sheets (price varies based on thickness, colour coating, brand etc.) |
Does galvanised steel rust?
The idea behind applying a protective layer (e.g., paint) to a piece of metal is to improve its performance. For instance, stainless steel containing chromium and iron is also non-corrosive and heat and fire resistant and has higher aesthetic appeal.
Also read: Difference between stainless steel and galvanised steel
Galvanising therefore makes a galvanised sheet rust and corrosion free, comparatively longer than any basic treatment like paint. However, it is not permanent.
The layer of zinc oxide on the steel surface creates a protective layer (zinc carbonate) when in contact with moisture and environmental elements. However, when in coastal or tropical environments, or when exposed to alkali or acid rain, the zinc carbonate will gradually start to break. As such, over the years (e.g., 10+ years), even the best quality galvanised sheet steel will rust when exposed to certain environments.
Should you use galvanised steel in your projects? Benefits and more
We’ve looked at all the commonly questions around galvanised steel – What is galvanised steel? How much does galvanised steel cost? Does it rust? What are the different types? How is it different from GI sheets? The natural question at this point is, should you as a business owner use galvanised steel for your construction/manufacturing projects?
Galvanised steel is cost-effective, durable, and versatile. It is strong and flexible and a suitable option that aligns with both financial constraints and quality requirements. For MSMEs particularly, galvanised steel sheets and galvanised iron sheets are feasible options for their projects.
To wrap up, here are some of the top benefits or advantages of galvanised steel and why you should consider using it:
- Corrosion resistance: Can provide long-term protection from rust, hence reducing maintenance cost or cost of replacement.
- Cost-effectiveness: Is economical (when compared to stainless steel), and affordable with lower lifecycle costs, especially advantageous for budget conscious businesses.
- Durability: Is strong and durable, and increases the lifespan of structures, making it suitable for long-term investment.
- Versatility: Can be used in different applications and industries, making it a versatile metal.
- Eco-friendly: It is recyclable, supporting sustainable business practices, aligned with the country’s focus on environmental-friendly use of materials. (Also read: Steel scrap recycling policy)
Also read: Interim Budget 2024 – Sustainability and green manufacturing initiatives
Sohini is a seasoned content writer with 12 years’ experience in developing marketing and business content across multiple formats. At Tata nexarc, she leverages her skills in crafting curated content on the Indian MSME sector, steel procurement, and logistics. In her personal time, she enjoys reading fiction and being up-to-date on trends in digital marketing and the Indian business ecosystem.
We use electrogalvanized steel for car bodies because of its smooth finish. It would be interesting to see a comparison of the corrosion resistance of electrogalvanized vs. hot-dip galvanized steel.Thanks