1. Manufacturing Process
Electro-Galvanized (Cold Galvanized):
- Uses electroplating to deposit a thin zinc layer on steel surfaces via an electrolytic reaction.
- Lower production cost but less durable corrosion protection.
Hot-Dip Galvanized:
- Immerses steel in molten zinc at high temperatures (≈450°C), forming a metallurgically bonded alloy layer.
- Superior adhesion and uniform coverage, ideal for harsh environments.
2. Corrosion Resistance & Thickness
Feature |
Electro-Galvanized (Cold) |
Hot-Dip Galvanized |
Zinc Layer Thickness |
3–5 μm |
≥65 μm (Typically 80–275 g/m²) |
Durability |
Short-term indoor use |
Long-term outdoor/industrial use |
Appearance |
Smooth, shiny (yellow-green tint) |
Matte silver with zinc "flowers" |
Why Hot-Dip Wins:
- The thick zinc layer provides superior barrier protection and sacrificial corrosion resistance.
- Electro-galvanized coatings degrade faster in moisture/humidity.
3. Applications
- Electro-Galvanized Cable Trays:
Best for controlled indoor environments (e.g., dry warehouses, clean rooms).
- Hot-Dip Galvanized Cable Trays:
Standard for outdoor installations, coastal areas, chemical plants, and other corrosive settings.
4. Environmental & Cost Considerations
- Electro-Galvanizing:
Cheaper upfront but shorter lifespan.
Limited environmental benefits due to shorter replacement cycles.
- Hot-Dip Galvanizing:
Higher initial cost but 5–10x longer service life.
Eco-friendly: Zinc is recyclable, and the process generates minimal waste.
Industry Trends
Hot-dip galvanization has largely replaced electro-galvanization in cable tray manufacturing due to its unmatched durability. Modern standards (e.g., ISO 1461) mandate minimum zinc thickness for corrosion resistance, making hot-dip the global default choice for critical infrastructure.