In greenhouse construction, galvanized steel pipes are usually used for making a structure frame. Square steel tube is a popular choice for the greenhouse posts from the ground to support the roof. However, in the harsh environment with changing weather and temperature, the rust will accelerate and the galvanized steel will become rusty after a period of time of 3 - 4 years.
And then, this is the time you need to replace your rusty galvanized steel tubes and spend a lot of money for maintenance costs to maintain the strength of the structure.
Learn how to reduce greenhouse maintenance costs!
Why does the rust accelerate on galvanized steel tubes?
Galvanized steel tube is made from pre-galvanized steel sheet. This is a type of steel that has zinc plating on its surface to protect the inner steel core from the impact of external factors. It helps galvanized steel tubes resistant to rust.
Although zinc plating can help steel limit rust, oxidation and corrosion in different environments. However, the zinc coating wears away over time due to environmental factors like water quality, temperature, and exposure to certain chemicals, allowing the underlying steel to corrode and get rust.
Below are some factors impact the rate of corrosion:
- Quality of zinc coating: Galvanized steel pipe is a welded steel pipe made of pregalvanized steel sheet. During the tubing process, the welding bead on the outer surface of the pipe is removed then recoated by zinc plating spray. This zinc coating on the welding bead is the weak area and can be worn away over time allowing corrosive agents to penetrate through tiny holes to attack the mild steel beneath, causing corrosion and rust. Scratches, dents, or other physical damage to the zinc coating can expose the steel to the elements, leading to localized rusting.
- Environmental Factors: Greenhouses with high humidity, salt exposure, and certain chemical in fertilizer can accelerate corrosion.
- Air: Evaluate the humidity levels, and exposure to salt, acids, or industrial pollutants. While desert air poses minimal concerns, tropical cities may present potential challenges due to higher humidity and increased exposure to corrosive elements.
- Soil: If galvanized steel is buried in soil, such as when used as a base for a fence post, it will be subjected to heightened moisture levels. However, the extent of this impact varies depending on the soil type and overall conditions, such as the presence of muddy and wet soil or sandy and dry soil.
- Temperature: Temperature is a critical factor significantly influencing the lifespan of steel. Fluctuations in temperature can directly cause the degradation of galvanized steel. Hot water can accelerate the degradation of the zinc coating, allowing the steel to oxidize faster.
- Water quality: Hard water with high mineral content, especially calcium and magnesium, can accelerate corrosion. Acidic water with low pH can also speed up the corrosion of galvanized steel pipes.
Considering these local environmental factors is essential to accurately assess the potential effects and longevity of galvanized steel in a given setting.
How to increase the lifetime of greenhouse post
Although zinc plating helps galvanized steel tubes limit rust, oxidation, and corrosion in different environments. However, under the influence of extreme environmental factors such as weather, temperature, climate, and natural disasters, only zinc plating is not enough to protect galvanized steel from rust. In order to prevent the corrosion on a galvanized steel tube, it is necessary to create a solid protective film over its surfaces. Below are a few solutions to help limit the rusting galvanized steel.
Use powder coating resin: Powder coating is the process of applying polyester resin powder over the surfaces of steel and metal to enhance the ability to limit rust, prevent corrosion, and create aesthetics for the product. Polyester resin powder coating when applied correctly on steel products can provide a rock-hard protective surface against corrosion, and with proper maintenance it will last for a considerable period of time. In general, polyester resin powder coating is the most suitable solution for long-term and durable resistance to bad weather, volatile temperatures that impact galvanized steel tubes, especially the post of greenhouse construction.
Use anti-rust oil and grease: oil and grease on the surface of steel tubes can prevent the corrosion impact from air, water, and atmospheric environment on metal surfaces. However, under real conditions, anti-rust oil needs to be used regularly and needs to be repeatedly applied after the oil is dried, so this method is not so convenient for large and long steel tubes in the greenhouse construction.
Rust proof paint: anti-rust paint contributes to protecting the zinc coating, helps limit steel from oxidative corrosion. This is the common and economical method to prevent rust. But this method requires extensive labor and paint usually is toxic, so it is not very suitable for greenhouse construction.
Why Daiwa Color pipe can help you reduce maintenance cost in Greenhouse Construction?
Daiwa Color Pipe offers a significant advantage in greenhouse construction due to its unique manufacturing process. Constructed with powder coating both inside and outside surfaces, Daiwa Color Pipe provides comprehensive protection against corrosion.
Daiwa Color Pipe underwent rigorous testing, passing 90 test cycles. This equates to 20 years of exposure in coastal areas, where conditions are particularly harsh, or 30 years in countryside areas with less severe environmental factors.
The results of these tests demonstrate a clear correlation between the cycle test and real-world exposure. They highlight that the Daiwa Color Pipe's powder coating dramatically enhances corrosion resistance. This enhancement leads to an extended lifespan for the pipes, lasting several years longer compared to bare mild steel or traditional galvanized pipes. This durability translates to lower maintenance costs and fewer replacements over time.
Especially beneficial for structural supports: Square Color Pipe
Within our Daiwa Color Pipe product line, our Square Color Pipe is particularly well-suited for greenhouse construction. The square shape provides excellent structural integrity and is ideal for support posts and framework.By choosing Daiwa Square Color Pipe, you not only benefit from the exceptional corrosion resistance of our powder coating but also gain the added strength and stability of the square profile. This makes it an ideal choice for withstanding the weight and environmental stresses that greenhouse structures endure. Investing in Daiwa Square Color Pipe means investing in a reliable and long-lasting foundation for your greenhouse, ensuring years of dependable performance with minimal upkeep.
Construction of Daiwa Color pipe with powder coated both inside and outside surfaces.
Daiwa Color pipe passed 90 test cycles, which represents 20 years in coastal areas or 30 years in countryside area.
The results above highlight the correlation between the cycle test and the exposure test. They demonstrate that the Daiwa Color Pipe powder coating significantly enhances corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of the products for several years compared to bare mild steel or galvanized pipes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while galvanized steel pipes are a common choice for greenhouse construction, their susceptibility to rust and corrosion leads to significant maintenance costs over time. Daiwa Color pipes, with their superior powder-coated protection both inside and out, offer a long-lasting and cost-effective alternative. The rigorous 90-cycle testing, equivalent to 20 years in coastal areas or 30 years in countryside areas, demonstrates the exceptional corrosion resistance and extended lifespan of Daiwa Color pipes. By choosing Daiwa Color pipes, greenhouse constructors can significantly reduce maintenance expenses, minimize the need for frequent replacements, and ensure the structural integrity of their greenhouses for many years to come. This makes Daiwa Color pipes a smart investment for any greenhouse project looking to optimize long-term costs and performance.
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