The Effects and Causes of Deficiencies in Galvanization with Cyanide
Galvanization with cyanide, or hot-dip galvanizing, is a common surface finishing process for steel and other metals that is often used to help protect against corrosion and rust. The process involves treating the metal surface with a solution of zinc cyanide, which causes a uniform, protective layer of zinc to form on the metal surface. While galvanization with cyanide can provide many benefits, the process is not without its deficiencies. In this article, well discuss the potential flaws of using this method and the causes behind them.
First, it is important to understand that galvanization with cyanide is relatively slow compared to other metal surface finishing processes. As mentioned, the process requires treating the metal surface with a solution of zinc cyanide, and this can take a considerable amount of time. In addition, the galvanization process can often be uneven due to the small left-over pieces of galvanized material that can remain on the metal surface after the process is complete. This can cause problems with corrosion resistance and adhesion due to the uneven distribution of zinc on the metal surface.
In addition to time and unevenness, galvanization with cyanide can also experience problems due to improper water pH levels. If the water used to rinse off the galvanized metal during the process is too alkaline or acidic, this can affect the quality of the galvanization. Too much alkalinity or acidity can lead to a reduced zinc coating, which can cause issues with corrosion and rusting.
Other possible deficiencies of galvanization with cyanide can include an excess of oxygen in the atmosphere, as well as an inadequate temperature control during the process. If the environment around the galvanizing process is too oxygen-rich, this can cause the solution of zinc cyanide to oxidize, which can lead to a thin, inferior coating of zinc on the metal surface. Temperature is also quite important, as temperatures that are too low or too high can lead to a thin or uneven coating of zinc.
Overall, galvanization with cyanide can come with a number of potential flaws, the majority of which can be attributed to process conditions such as the water pH levels, oxygen levels, and temperature being too high or low. It is important to be aware of these potential deficiencies and to maintain quality control over the galvanizing process in order to achieve the desired results. With careful monitoring and attention to process variables, galvanization with cyanide can be an effective and reliable surface finishing process for steel and other metals.
