Dissimilar metals
Dissimilar metals
(OP)
I am designing some equipment for use in high salinity conditions. The probelem is that although I would like to use all steel I have a tight constraint on budget. Can I successfully mix aluminium and steel components (if so what protective coatings should I use) and can I use zinc alloy (e.g. BS1004A) for any load bearing parts.
Thanks in advance
Thanks in advance





RE: Dissimilar metals
The alum. will tend to corrode as it tries to protect the steel, so you will need a good coating-such as a high-build epoxy, etc.
RE: Dissimilar metals
Cheers
RE: Dissimilar metals
Zinc alloys aren't usually used for high-stress applications.
RE: Dissimilar metals
I have thrown zinc out of the window as it were, and am going to be using zintec coated steel sheet and al alloy (possibly 7075 T6)so hope that the corrsoion problem is solved. However, can you think of any other material (preferably cheap) that is free machining that may be better suited to the environment.
RE: Dissimilar metals
RE: Dissimilar metals
Zinc coated steel won't last too long in aggressive water.
It's hard to envision just what you are building.
RE: Dissimilar metals
For the protective coating to be used,use Zn coating for the design.Zn coating will give the best protection needed.This is because Zn is anodic relative to Al&steel,any break in the coating will not lead to corrosion of the design(Al+steel),which is cathodic and preserved.