How to Galvanize Steel Bolts

Galvanized coated fasteners are protected from rust.

Galvanizing is the process of bonding zinc to the surface of steel. The zinc coating inhibits the formation of rust on the surface of the steel. Hot-dipping the steel into a vat of molten zinc is the standard application process used when mass-producing galvanized parts. Cold galvanizing is a zinc-based aerosol spray similar to spray paint that applies zinc to the surface of a steel part. Once dry, the cold galvanizing is effective in eliminating the formation of rust.

Things You'll Need

• Degreasing cleaner
• Wire brush
• Clean rags
• Cardboard
• Cold galvanizing spray

Instructions

1. Clean the steel bolts with a degreasing cleaner and a wire brush. Finish cleaning the steel bolt with a clean rag. Repeat the cleaning process until the steel bolts are grease-, oil- and dirt-free.

2. Set the cleaned steel bolts on a piece of cardboard.

3. Shake the can of cold galvanizing spray for two minutes or the amount of time recommended on the back of the spray can.

4. Spray a light coat of cold galvanizing spray on the exposed side of each steel bolt. Allow the cold galvanizing spray to dry for one hour. Flip each bolt and spray the exposed side of each bolt with a light coat of cold galvanizing spray. Repeat the process of flipping, spraying and allowing the coating to cure for one hour until the entire bolt is covered with cold galvanizing spray.

5. Set the cold galvanized steel bolts aside to cure for 12 to 24 hours before installing the bolts. Installing the bolts early might damage the zinc coating left by the cold galvanizing spray.

References

• Alvin Products: Cold Galvanizing Compound for Corrosion Control
• ClearCo: ClearCo Cold Galvanizing Spray