When that galvanized conduit is left in less-than-ideal conditions, its surface can go through a whole host of changes, and it's all thanks to pesky factors like the environment, physical bumps and scrapes, or even chemical corrosion. Let's take a closer look at some of the common surface transformations that might be lurking in your storage area.
Picture this: you've got your galvanized conduit sitting in a damp, rainy corner, or maybe in an area with corrosive gases floating around. What happens next? That shiny galvanized layer starts to break down. Before you know it, you've got surface rust and corrosion making an unwelcome appearance. And it's not just about looks – this corrosion can seriously undermine the conduit's ability to protect whatever it's supposed to, cutting its useful life short.
Ever notice how things left out in the air for a long time seem to lose their sparkle? The same goes for our galvanized conduit. Extended exposure to the air can cause the galvanized layer to gradually dull and lose its luster. Now, oxidation might not sound like a big deal at first, but it could be a sign that the layer is starting to take a hit.
We've all been there – in a rush to get things done and not being as careful as we should be. When it comes to handling, stacking, or transporting galvanized conduit, a little carelessness can lead to scratches and wear on the surface. These seemingly small marks can actually be a big problem, as they can break through the galvanized layer and leave it vulnerable to rust and corrosion.
During storage, the surface color of your galvanized conduit might decide to do a little dance. Maybe it's been out in the sun too long and is starting to fade, or it had an unexpected encounter with a chemical that changed its hue.
Dust, oil stains, and other unwanted pollutants in the storage space can be like little troublemakers, attaching themselves to the conduit's surface. Not only does this mess with its appearance, but it can also set the stage for corrosion to start.
Now, don't worry! There are some easy steps you can take to keep your galvanized conduit in tip-top shape.
Keep it Dry: A Haven from Moisture
Find a nice, dry spot to store your conduit. By keeping it away from moistureand those nasty corrosive gases, you're giving it a fighting chance to staypristine.
Avoid Scratches: Handle with Care
When you're moving and stacking your conduit, slow down and be gentle. Avoidthose scratches and keep the surface intact.
Regular Inspection: The Detective Work
Make it a habit to check on your stored conduit regularly. This way, you canspot any signs of rust, corrosion, or scratches early and take action beforeit's too late.
Clean the Surface: A Fresh Start
Give your conduit a good scrub every now and then to get rid of any dust, oil,or other contaminants. It's like a little spa day for your building materials!
In a nutshell, improper storage can turnyour galvanized conduit's surface into a problem zone with rust, corrosion,oxidation, scratches, wear, discoloration, and pollution. But by taking thesesimple precautions, you can ensure it performs its best and lasts for years tocome. So, are you ready to give your conduit the care it deserves? Let's keepthose conduits looking and working great!
