Not all wiring is made of a single material. There are many different types of wiring, some of which are made of multiple materials. Galvanized strand wiring, for instance, features a core — typically steel — that’s coated in a thin layer of zinc.
Also known as galvanized stranded wiring, it’s made of many thin and twisted wires. While the wires themselves are typically made of steel, however, they feature an outer layer of zinc. Here are five facts about galvanized strand wiring.
#1) Highly Resistant to Corrosion
Thanks to its zinc outer layer, galvanized strand wiring is highly resistant to corrosion. Corrosion involves an electrochemical reaction between a given material and substances in the surrounding environment. Exposure to moisture, for instance, can cause iron and iron alloys to corrode. While galvanized strand wiring features a steel core, which is an iron alloy, it features a protective layer of zinc. Zinc corrodes roughly 100 times slower than other metals. Therefore, galvanized strand wiring can withstand moisture, oxygen and other environmental substances without corroding.
#2) Lightweight
In addition to being corrosion resistant, galvanized strand wiring is lightweight. It weighs less than traditional stainless steel wiring. Stainless steel is an alloy of iron and chromium. The chromium helps to protect the iron from oxidation, which could otherwise cause it to rust and corrode. Galvanized strand wiring features a plain steel core that’s coated in zinc. This composition makes it lighter than traditional stainless steel wiring.
#3) Hot-Dipped With Zinc
While there are different ways to produce galvanized steel wiring, one of the most common methods is hot-dipping. The steel strands are dipped in a bath of molten zinc. As the zinc cools, it hardens to form a protective outer layer shell over the steel strands. Hot-dipping ensures the zinc is applied fully and evenly over the steel strands.
#4) Extended Lifespan
Galvanized strand wiring can last for a long time. It’s strong, durable and resistant to environmental contaminants. When properly installed, in fact, galvanized strand wiring can last for 2o or 30 years — sometimes even longer. Other types of wiring often have a shorter lifespan due to their lack of a protective outer layer.
#5) Recyclable
Galvanized strand wiring is recyclable. The zinc outer layer can be removed. Once removed, the core consisting of steel strands can then be recycled and reused for other purposes. With more and more businesses taking a proactive approach towards green initiatives, this makes galvanized strand wiring a popular choice.