What is the Difference Between Mild Steel and Galvanized Iron?

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The main difference between mild steel and galvanized iron lies in their composition and corrosion resistance. Here are the key differences:

  • Composition: Mild steel is a form of carbon steel, which is an alloy of iron and carbon along with some other elements. Galvanized iron, on the other hand, is either pure iron or steel that has a zinc coating on its surface to protect it from rusting.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Mild steel easily undergoes corrosion when exposed to moisture and air, while galvanized iron has a protective zinc layer that helps prevent corrosion. The zinc coating on galvanized iron acts as a barrier between the iron and the environment, preventing oxidation and rust formation.

In summary, mild steel is a type of carbon steel that is more susceptible to corrosion, while galvanized iron has a zinc coating that provides corrosion resistance. Galvanized iron is commonly used in applications where corrosion resistance is required, such as water pipes.

Comparative Table: Mild Steel vs Galvanized Iron

Here is a table comparing the differences between mild steel and galvanized iron:

Property Mild Steel Galvanized Iron
Composition Contains a little amount of carbon (around 0.05-0.25% by weight) Can be either pure iron that has no carbon or steel as a constituent
Corrosion Resistance Undergoes rusting easily if not properly coated Has a zinc coating on the surface, which helps to prevent corrosion
Tensile Strength Low tensile strength Generally used for water pipes and general-purpose applications, offering good corrosion resistance and high pliability
Magnetism Highly magnetic due to the high amount of iron content May not be as magnetic due to the zinc coating
Manufacturing Process Carburizing is useful to increase the surface hardness of the steel, which is a heat treatment process in which the steel absorbs carbon from the surrounding environment (charcoal or other carbon sources) Galvanized iron is made by either immersing the iron or steel in molten zinc (hot-dipped galvanizing) or by using an electrolyte solution and electric current (galvanizing)
Uses Widely used in industry, manufacturing, and other industries, often used to manufacture roofs, coils, and various containers Commonly used for water pipes, general-purpose applications, and when corrosion resistance and high pliability are required

In summary, mild steel is a form of carbon steel with a low tensile strength and high magnetic properties, while galvanized iron is either pure iron or steel with a zinc coating on the surface to prevent corrosion.