In the fields of modern industry and construction, structural materials often need to face the test of various environments and working conditions. Among them, arc erosion is a common challenge, especially in the fields of power transmission and distribution systems, electrical equipment, and metal structures. To protect structural materials from the effects of arc erosion, engineers have developed various protective measures, including galvanizing. This article will delve into the arc resistance performance of galvanized layers, explore its principles, test methods, influencing factors and application prospects to help readers better understand and apply this key technology.
Arc is a high-temperature, high-energy discharge phenomenon with powerful destructive power. When an arc is generated, its high-temperature, high-energy current and plasma can instantly melt, vaporize or even evaporate the surface of structural materials, causing material damage and failure. Arc erosion will not only affect the performance and safety of equipment and structures, but may also cause fires and accidents, causing serious personal injuries and property losses.
Galvanizing is a protective coating that covers the surface of structural materials with zinc metal. The galvanized layer is usually made by two processes: hot-dip galvanizing and electro-galvanizing. The basic principle is to form a protective layer of zinc metal on the surface of structural materials to block the erosion of the material by arcs and external environments, thereby extending the service life of the material and improving corrosion resistance.
ASTM D495: The ASTM D495 standard is a commonly used test method for evaluating the arc resistance of a coating or material. This method evaluates the arc resistance of a coating or material by exposing it to an arc at a specific current and voltage and measuring the arc duration and damage level.
IEC 61482-1-1: The IEC 61482-1-1 standard is a test method developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to evaluate the performance of fabrics and materials under arc exposure. This method evaluates the arc resistance and protective effect of the material by simulating the thermal energy release and mechanical impact when an arc occurs.
The thickness of the galvanized layer directly affects its arc resistance. Generally, the thicker the galvanized layer, the better its arc resistance. The quality and uniformity of the galvanized layer also have an important impact on its arc resistance. Poor-quality or defective galvanized layers are easily damaged by arc exposure. The properties of the base material of the structural material will also affect the arc resistance of the galvanized layer, such as the electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity and mechanical strength of the material.
Arc resistance testing of galvanized coatings can be used to protect transmission lines, substation equipment and electrical equipment from arc erosion. Used to protect building structural materials from fire and arc erosion, such as steel structures, metal pipes, etc. Used to protect the shells and structures of aerospace equipment such as aircraft and rockets from arc erosion.