The galvanizing industry has been in existence for more than 150 years. It has endured against newer technologies because it remains the most cost effective and environmentally sustainable means of protecting steel against corrosion.
AN INDUSTRY OF THE FUTURE
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Whilst this is an old established industry it is by no means
reactionary. Progressive and dynamic, it fully recognises the changing
expectations that stakeholders have of industry in general and
particularly in respect of social responsibility and the environment.
The Galvanizers Association has done much to promote 'best practice',
to raise awareness of worker health and safety and provide extensive
guidance and training for member companies.
The industry has achieved significant process improvements, for
example, investing heavily to ensure that at least 95% of the
particulate emissions from galvanizing baths is captured.
Evidence also exists to demonstrate significant efficiency improvements
in the use of zinc in the ten years from 1987 to 1997, with up to 15%
more steel now being galvanized per tonne of zinc used.
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ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE
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Hot dip galvanizing is a simple but highly effective way to protect
steel. Being a dip process, it is efficient in its use of pre-treatment
chemicals and in zinc. It is an energy efficient process; the
galvanizing bath is operated just above the melting point of zinc. All
zinc residues are fully recycled.
Galvanizing provides a thick zinc coating that is strongly bonded to
the steel. This means that steel protected in this way needs none of
the costly regular maintenance normally associated with paint and other
coatings.
ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE
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GA is committed to ensuring that the industry has the knowledge to
operate to the highest possible standards and that all member companies
recognise and accept their responsibilities in respect of the
environment. Its role is to encourage best practice and responsible
behaviour and share information widely for the benefit of the whole
industry and the markets it serves.
GA's Manager-Health & Environment is available to give advice and
practical help as well as guidance on legislative and regulatory
requirements. Through these functions the Association actively strives
for continuous improvement in environmental performance and worker
health and safety. The Association is also able to ensure that the
environmental attributes of galvanizing are exploited fully in the
drive towards sustainable construction and manufacturing practices.
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