Iron is an essential material in construction and industry, but its greatest enemy is corrosion. Without proper protection, exposure to oxygen and moisture can cause rust to form, weakening its structure and reducing its service life. Fortunately, there are several techniques to protect iron and ensure its durability. Below, we explore the most effective ones.

Galvanisation: a zinc shield against corrosion

Galvanisation is one of the most efficient solutions to prevent iron corrosion. This process consists of coating the surface with a layer of zinc, which acts as a barrier against corrosive agents. There are two main types of galvanisations:

  • Hot-dip galvanising: the iron is dipped in molten zinc, achieving a uniform and resistant coating.
  • Cold galvanisation: a layer of zinc is applied by spraying or electrolysis, forming an effective but less durable protection than hot-dip galvanisation.

Due to zinc’s ability to form a protective layer even when small cracks occur, galvanisation has become one of the most widely used techniques for infrastructure and metal elements exposed to the elements.

Coatings: physical barriers against moisture

Another effective strategy to protect iron is the application of special coatings, which act as a barrier between the metal and the environment. Among the most
most common options are:

  • Anti-corrosion paints: these contain rust-inhibiting pigments and create a protective layer that prevents contact with water and oxygen.
  • Enamels and varnishes: they provide an aesthetic finish and reinforce the iron’s resistance to external agents.
  • Plastic and epoxy coatings: these are applied by spraying or immersion, providing highly resistant protection.

Each of these coatings is chosen according to the type of exposure to which the iron will be subjected, allowing optimum adaptation to different environmental conditions.

Chemical treatments: protection from the inside

In addition to physical methods, there are chemical treatments designed to improve the iron’s resistance to corrosion:

  • Phosphating: a phosphate coating is applied to the surface of the iron, improving its adhesion to paints and other protective coatings.
  • Passivation: this consists of applying chemical substances that reduce the reactivity of the iron, reducing its tendency to rust.
  • Corrosion inhibitors: these are used on structures that are submerged or in contact with aggressive chemicals, creating a molecular barrier that prevents the deterioration of the metal.

Choosing the best technique for the environment

The choice of corrosion protection method depends on the environment in which the iron is located. For outdoor structures exposed to rain and moisture, hot-dip galvanising is an excellent choice.
humidity, hot-dip galvanising is an excellent choice. In industrial applications, epoxy coatings and chemical treatments can offer optimum protection.
provide optimum protection.

At Hierros Mora Antón, we know that the durability of iron is key to any project. That is why we offer solutions adapted to every need,
Do you want to know more? Contact us and we will advise you on the best option for your projects.
option for your projects.