Aluminium vs Galvanized steel

[dianad]

Hi,

I have a doubt related to PV pannels structures, to be installed near the sea. I want to know witch material is more resistant to corrosive environment: aluminium or galvanized steel?

Is there any quick reference or a technical document, where i can find this and more about coatings in metal structures?

Thanks!!!

 

[strider6]

Dianad

These documents and resources can help u:

Aluminium corrosion

http://aluminium.matter.org.uk/aluselect/02_corrosion_browse.asp

The zinc coating life predictor

http://www.galvinfo.com:8080/zclp/

A corrosion protection guide
For steelwork exposed to atmospheric environments

http://resource.npl.co.uk/docs/scie...ides/pdf/exposed_atmospheric_environments.pdf

Corrosion Protection

S


Corrosion Prevention & Corrosion Control

 

[dianad]

strider6,

Thanks for the reply and for all the references!
But, can you give me a straight answer for now?

Thanks!

 

[CoryPad]

Are you asking about aluminium and its alloys (with and without surface treatment(s))? Or, are you asking about aluminium-coated steel?

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[dianad]

The only data that i have is the one i gave. I haven't specifications other than the aluminium: AlMgSi....


Thanks

 

[CoryPad]

OK, you are asking aluminium alloys. In general, they are better than galvanized steel, but there are so many important factors that it is difficult to say more than that.

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[RPstress]

Al-Mg-Si sounds like a 6000-series. That will be pretty inert, even if there's a chance of a bit of salt spray, but not as good as a 5000-series. 5000-series can essentially be used bare in a marine environment. Beware of galvanic corrosion if mixing Al with other metallic materials.

 

[dianad]

Thank you alll

 

[strider6]

i think aluminium, marine grade, is the best solution, galavnized steel can have some problems in environments very aggressive like marine with high chloride contents. but it all depends also on the mechanical properties that you need.

S

Corrosion Prevention & Corrosion Control