Hot-dip galvanising is the most sustainable and efficient way to protect steel against corrosion (rust). After a number of pretreatment baths, the steel is immersed in a large bath with molten zinc. The alloy layers formed have a layer thickness in accordance with the standard NEN EN ISO 1461, which results in extremely strong galvanised steel that lasts for decades.

Weert Groep only uses special high-grade zinc. This high quality consists of 99.995% pure zinc with only the minimum amount of lead and aluminium required. This means that each object is coated with a maximum layer thickness, guaranteeing maximum protection and maximum life.

In addition, the cathodic operation of zinc gives extra protection as zinc in combination with steel in a damp environment creates a galvanic element, so that passivating zinc salts fill in any damaged or uncoated parts. An extra natural weapon in the fight against corrosion.

The zinc waste that remains in the bath during the immersion process is also completely recycled for reuse.

Stands for quality, innovation and sustainability; these concepts are part of the identity of Weert Groep. The market leader is happy to demonstrate that environmental friendliness goes hand in hand with excellent corrosion protection.

Galvanised materials, black steel, aluminium and stainless steel are made suitable for the application of a powder coating by a pretreatment. For years a chemical treatment was preferably used for this based on Chromium VI, due to the excellent adhesive properties and highly corrosion-resistant effect.

As of 1 September 2017 this carcinogenic and polluting substance is no longer permitted in European legislation. However, long before the mandatory date, Weert Groep replaced the toxic Chromium VI with its own Chromium III which it developed inhouse. This new, high-quality alternative does not damage health and the environment!

After years of study and an intensive test period, both on laboratory scale and in practice, the non-toxic Chromium III has proven time and time again that all the good properties are retained. A variety of tests, such as the Machu bath (accelerated corrosion test) and the salt spray test, give at least the same results.

Stands for quality, innovation and sustainability; these concepts are part of the identity of Weert Groep. The development of Chromium III (officially recognised with a GSB quality mark) is a perfect example of this.

Weert Groep is GSB certified for hot-dip galvanising and powder coating: quality guideline GSB ST663.

The globally operating, leading institute – with more than 180 members in 25 countries –  issued this quality guideline in 1997. In 2009 the treatment of galvanised surfaces was also described exactly based on the Qualicoat organisation. The agreement between GSB and Qualicoat is that both organisations guarantee quality and set clear guidelines for this. Having an official quality mark is a huge step forwards as compared with companies that control their own quality assurance.

All certified members comply with the strict requirements of GSB in the area of applied technology, raw materials and processing. These requirements are dynamic and are always applied to the latest technology and information. Moreover, GSB sets a performance above the applicable standard as precondition. This starting point fits in well with the core values of Weert Groep.

Stands for quality, innovation and sustainability; these concepts are part of the identity of Weert Groep. It is therefore a logical choice to apply the guideline GST ST 663 as a vital element of the business operations.

Hot-dip galvanised steel is sustainable, almost maintenance free and provides maximum protection at minimum cost. The treated objects require hardly any maintenance, due to the hard, wear-resistant coating, the optimum protection of corners, edges and points and hollow sections and the excellent corrosion resistance.

However, within the framework of sustainability and costs of ownership the question about estimated life is being asked with increasing frequency. Since the setting up of Weert Groep (in 1948), more than sufficient proof has been provided that galvanised objects last at least a generation and often much longer. Under normal conditions, hot-dip galvanising requires no maintenance or cleaning, unless this is necessary for visual aspects or mechanical load.

However, the condition is always set that an inspection must be carried out periodically, for example to retain the guarantee. Moreover, the life of the object can be extended further if the cleaning and maintenance advice is followed correctly.

Stands for quality, innovation and sustainability; these concepts are part of the identity of Weert Groep. It therefore goes without saying that maintenance instructions are based on maintaining quality and extending life.

The good finish and excellent protective properties make hot-dip galvanising very suitable for steel and/or iron semi-finished and finished products in their final form.

Products with a maximum length of 13.5 metres and maximum height of 2.9 metres are immersed completely once. Using the double dip method (immersion in two halves), products up to a length of 24 metres can be galvanised. The maximum height is variable and depends on the overall shape. The thickness and volume of the alloy layers are determined by the kind of steel used in combination with the zinc alloy used.

The method used also contributes to the high level of flexibility of hot-dip galvanising. A flexibility that lends itself very well to the treatment of complex shapes and objects with a large surface to weight ratio. The potential applications are in fact unlimited. However, the most common projects come from building, road construction, transport and the construction sector.

Stands for quality, innovation and sustainability; these concepts are part of the identity of Weert Groep. This means that the organisation always takes responsibility and takes on each challenging project with enthusiasm.