Galvanized vs. Non-galvanized Mild Steel Tube: Which Is Better?

Mild steel tube is a carbon steel pipe made of carbon steel with a low carbon content as the main raw material, processed by rolling, welding or seamless process. It is widely used in building structures, industrial equipment, pipeline transportation, automobile manufacturing and other fields. Sometimes, in order to improve the service life of mild steel tubes in harsh environments, galvanizing is often used to form a zinc layer on the surface of the steel pipe, thereby improving the corrosion resistance. So, if all factors are considered, which is better, galvanized or non-galvanized mild steel tube?

The choice of galvanized and non-galvanized mild steel tubes needs to be comprehensively judged according to the specific usage scenarios and needs. The following is a detailed comparison of manufacturing process, durability, usage differences and price differences:

Differences in manufacturing process

1. Galvanized mild steel tube

A dense zinc layer is formed on the surface of the steel pipe through hot dip galvanizing (immersing the steel pipe in molten zinc liquid) or electrogalvanizing (electrolytic deposition of zinc layer) process. The galvanizing process increases the ability to resist oxidation and corrosion, but the process is complex and energy consumption is high.

2. Non-galvanized mild steel tube

It is directly rolled or welded from low-carbon steel, without the need for coating treatment, with a simple manufacturing process and low cost.

Differences in durability

1. Galvanized mild steel tube

The zinc layer provides dual protection (physical barrier + sacrificial anode protection), significantly extending the service life (up to 20-50 years). However, the zinc layer may fall off due to mechanical damage or long-term exposure to strong acid/alkali environments, resulting in local corrosion.

2. Non-galvanized mild steel tube

There is no risk of coating shedding, and the initial surface is smoother. However, the steel pipe is prone to rust when directly exposed to moisture, salt spray or corrosive environments, and has a short lifespan (generally 5-15 years).

Differences in usage scenarios

1. Galvanized mild steel tube

It is widely used in occasions where anti-corrosion protection is required, such as outdoor pipe networks (water supply, drainage systems), agricultural irrigation, HVAC systems and other fields that are prone to moisture or in corrosive environments. In harsh environments, galvanized steel pipes can better resist external factors and reduce subsequent maintenance costs.

2. Non-galvanized mild steel tubes

Suitable for indoor, dry environments or areas with low anti-corrosion requirements, such as building structures, internal supports, decoration, etc. When used in wet or corrosive environments, additional protective measures or more frequent maintenance are required.

Differences in price

1. Galvanized mild steel tubes

Due to the addition of the galvanizing process (whether hot-dip or electroplating), the production cost is higher, resulting in a generally higher market price than non-galvanized steel pipes. However, the long-term maintenance cost is low, reducing the frequency of replacement and anti-corrosion treatment.

2. Non-galvanized mild steel tubes

The manufacturing process is simple, there is no additional anti-corrosion treatment cost, so the price is low, suitable for cost-sensitive projects. The long-term maintenance cost is high, and corroded parts need to be painted or replaced regularly.

Comprehensive recommendations

Galvanized mild steel tubes are suitable for wet, corrosive environments or long-term infrastructure (such as water pipes, outdoor structures), focusing on life and low maintenance costs. Non-galvanized mild steel tubes are more suitable for dry environments, short-term projects, or those that require secondary processing (such as painting, welding), and have limited budgets. It should be noted that galvanized pipes may release toxic zinc fumes when welded, so ventilation protection is required; for drinking water pipes, it is recommended to choose galvanized pipes that meet food grade standards (such as hot-dip galvanizing), or use stainless steel pipes instead; non-galvanized pipes can extend their life in humid environments by applying anti-rust paint.