How galvanising protects our trailers

In order to protect the steel with which our trailers are made, they go through a process called galvanizing. The steel chassis, having been cleaned in an acid tank then rinsed and dried, is dipped in a tank of molten zinc. At a temperature of around 450°, the molten zinc bonds with the steel providing a protective coating. After being rinsed, dried and inspected, the chassis is then ready for final assembly with the addition of axles, wheels, brakes, lights and other components.

When it emerges from the galvanizing process, the chassis is shiny, but this sheen fades as the zinc coating oxidizes when exposed to the elements. This is perfectly normal and doesn’t affect the protection that the zinc coating provides.

Over the last few years, the chemicals used in the galvanizing process have been modified to reduce their environmental impact and this has resulted in trailers losing their sheen faster than previously, but again, has no impact on the protection it provides. However particularly in winter months when salt and other corrosive elements are used on roads, it is important to regularly wash a trailer in water to remove these corrosive substances and prolong a trailer’s appearance.