Steel/Aluminum connection

[dwray]

Will painting steel and aluminum prior to fastening them together with stainless steel screws prevent a galvanic reaction? This will be used for an exterior canopy. Or should a separation tape be used. Thanks.

 

[Lion06]

I don't believe it will. If you keep moisture away from you will avoid galvanic corrosion.

 

[youngstructural]

Echo StructuralEIT's statement, and add that proprietary paints made for separation of dissimilar metals exist. Also there are rubber pads, plastic coated bolts, etc available. It is, as your question shows you are aware, incredibly important to detail/specify sufficient separation; Make this an issue for the contractor, architect and material suppliers! It is not, strictly, a Structural Engineering issue and may not be covered by your liability insurance.

Unless you have specific trainning in this area get the support of someone who does; At a minimum a material supplier/manufacturer, ideally an Architect.

Cheers,

YS

B.Eng (Carleton)
Working in New Zealand, thinking of my snow covered home...

 

[PEinVA]

Usually we point out any issue like this to the Architect and contractor, and put notes all over the connection stating a special connection is to be designed for the separation of the dissimilar metals and submitted for approval by the SER and Arch.

We found this easier because they usually have a different way of doing things, and just saves the RFI and back and forth, at least for us.

RC
All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.
Edmund Burke

 

[IFRs]

You might have to worry about the bolts also.

 

[civilperson]

Paint or lacquer will be sufficient between steel and aluminum surfaces, (after the holes are made).