All three of these steel types are galvanized steel. A zinc coating has been added to the surface to protect the underlying steel from corrosion.
However, the differences are as follows:
- Zintex offers “only” sufficient protection for temporary storage and transport, but is the most affordable option.
- Hot dip zinc coated steel is more expensive, but offers better protection against corrosion and wear, even in aggressive environments.
- Magnelis® is the most expensive option, but excels in corrosion resistance and environmental friendliness.
From left to right: Zincor, Sendzimir and Magnelis®
These differences arise from the thickness and composition of the zinc coating. With Zintec, the coating is applied using an electrolytic process, which produces a thin layer. With Hot dip zinc coated steel, the zinc coating is slightly thicker. With Magnelis®, the coating is not only thicker, but also enriched with 3.5% aluminum and 3.5% magnesium.
This also leads to a few practical differences:
- With Magnelis®, the corrosion rate is up to three times lower than other hot-dip zinc steel.
- Magnelis® can repair itself because the coating slowly spreads over flash rust and exposed cut edges.