For many industries, steel is considered as one of the most important foundational materials. As an alloy of iron, notable properties of the metal include its strength and durability.
However, like any other material, it has its limits. Corrosion is a common issue that affects iron’s durability, and environmental factors such as salt and pollution can cause further harm to the metal’s overall state.
To combat this, POSCO has created a specialized galvanized steel called PosMAC (POSCO Magnesium Alloy Coating Product), which is guaranteed to last five to ten times longer than standard steel due to its newly formulated composition.
PosMAC’s Unique Qualities
Galvanized steel has a special coating created from zinc that protects it from rust over time due to contaminants in the air. Yet, it still remains susceptible to corrosion — the primary zinc layer can easily be broken down, and potentially create more damage to the iron.
PosMAC, however, has an outer layer made from a combination of zinc, aluminum and magnesium that allows it to outlast galvanized steel’s zinc-only layer.
This mixture creates a protective film layer called simonkolleite when PosMAC’s coating is exposed. Simonkolleite is a stable compound that forms from the presence of magnesium, which then turns into an extra barrier of protection on top of its external layer.
PosMAC’s special coating also has a greater hardness than that of other steels, which reduces contamination during processing and minimizes the incurrence of scratches.
But the most remarkable aspect of simonkolleite is how it “heals” exposed parts of steel. Usually, when a surface is exposed, rust forms. However, with PosMAC, the simonkolleite layer gradually coats the vulnerable portion to prevent it from further corroding.
The Uses of Specialized Steel
Why is a highly corrosion-resistant steel like PosMAC considered so important? Because of its ability to withstand rust, it is considered a versatile material for painting, welding, construction processes and even raising livestock – all processes that require a lasting and high-strength metal to support prolonged usage.
It is ideal for manufacturing electronics and for automotive uses, and since it can survive high temperatures and environments with high moisture levels, it can be utilized in structures such as marine farms and subways.
Affordably Effective
PosMAC is considered cost-effective because of its high durability – with less corrosion, less is spent on maintenance and replacement fees. It also does not require a post-coating process like unplated steel, which also shaves costs.
Solar panels have become an important area where the use of specialized steel, such as PosMAC, is necessary. These renewable energy sources require stable structures that can last beyond 20 to 30 years, and as a result, are expensive to build. PosMAC ensures longevity, which saves money in the long run.
A New Rendition of POSCO Steel
PosMAC is one of the many examples that showcase POSCO’s status as a company creating premium and innovative products for the global market. The company has been named as the “World’s Most Competitive Steel Company” for 7 consecutive years, and continues to supply the world with high-quality steel to run a wide span of industries.
Thanks to PosMAC, POSCO’s reliable and corrosion-resistant steel solution, the standard face of steel has been revolutionized for the overall betterment of infrastructure and commerce.
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