The purpose of this directory is to assist buyers or users of hot dip galvanized steel to choose a galvanizer. Most sizes and shapes of steel fabrications can be hot dip galvanized, but the dimensions of the galvanizing bath determine the size and shape of articles that can be coated in a particular works.

The design of the component may be important for successful galvanizing and early consultation between galvanizer, fabricator and designer is the key to obtaining the best result. Design features which aid the access and drainage of molten zinc will improve the quality of the coating (refer to Designing Articles for Galvanizing).

Bath Dimensions

The directory indicates the length, depth and width of the galvanizing bath(s) at each works. These bath dimensions give an indication of maximum size of fabrication which can be processed at that plant. It is important to recognise that these dimensions do not, in themselves, represent the maximum size of fabrication which can be dipped. The precise maximum single dip size can be agreed with the galvanizer and will usually depend upon the angle of immersion and overall dimensions of the fabrication.

Double-Dipping

Articles which are larger than the bath dimensions can sometimes be galvanized by "double-dipping". Here, the article is partially dipped in the zinc, removed, reversed for length or depth to allow dipping of previously un-coated section. Although generally it is preferable to process work in single dip, the corrosion protection afforded through double dipping is no different to that provided in a single dip. Sizes of articles which can be double-dipped should always be agreed with the galvanizer.