Anti-corrosion protection of structures

In the production of mounting systems for photovoltaic installations, Kraft Solergy uses steel produced by Borcelik (Turkey), which is covered with a protective layer of zinc applied by the continuous hot-dip galvanizing process. Continuous hot-dip galvanizing produces a more uniform and durable zinc coating compared to batch hot-dip galvanizing. This provides a high degree of corrosion protection, which helps to maintain the quality of metal structures and extend their service life, especially in aggressive environments or external influences.

Bolcelik, the manufacturer of the metal used in the structures manufactured by Kraft Solergy Company, conducted laboratory and field tests of the zinc protective layer for resistance to various types of impact.

On pages 11-13, we present the results of field tests in which samples of metal products were placed in an aggressive environment, namely on the seashore, where the humid air is saturated with salts. The tests were conducted for 3.5 years. The photo clearly shows that the structure of the zinc coating from Borcelik has hardly changed during this time, while other samples have visible degradation of the zinc layer.

The next test (pp. 13-14) was conducted in a laboratory. The metal products were placed in a salt room, which significantly accelerates the corrosion process. The results are visible to the naked eye.

The next test (pp. 17-22) was also conducted in a salt room to test the corrosion protection of exposed metal areas that are formed when a part of the product is cut off or holes are cut by cold stamping. In this case, the anode-cathodic protection is clearly visible - rust can appear on steel only after the zinc layer has completely disappeared. It should be noted that this protection does not work when cutting off a part of the product with abrasive tools, as the zinc layer is destroyed by high temperatures during the cutting process.

The photo on p. 16 - expert opinion of the Technical University of Istanbul on the suitability of Borcelik galvanized steel for use as a material for road chippers in very aggressive environments. The photo on p. 23 shows the result of the assembly test, which shows that neither the steel nor the zinc coating was damaged.