Adhesives for Galvanized Steel: How to Create a Dependable Bond

The robust corrosion resistance of galvanized steel makes it the perfect choice for everything from solar panels to DOT projects. However, finding adhesives for galvanized steel can be challenging, as it’s often difficult to find ones that will last in the long run.

This does not mean that it’s impossible, though. In this guide, we’ll look at how you can create a dependable bond by using specific adhesives in a way that will help ensure they last as long as possible. 

Can You Use Adhesives on Galvanized Steel?

Yes. However, the zinc coating can make it difficult. 

Galvanized steel represents several challenges. The non-porous zinc layer can be oily, and traditional adhesives may not be effective without first properly preparing the galvanized steel.

Sometimes, it makes more sense to use mechanical fastening or welding as opposed to adhesive bonding. 

It’s still possible to use adhesives, but you must use the right ones because many will not last long-term.

What Are Effective Adhesives for Galvanized Steel? 

As we mentioned earlier, selecting the right adhesive is crucial. In fact, selecting the right adhesives for galvanized steel focuses on one of the most critical decisions you make when embarking on your project. You depend upon the reliable rust resistance of galvanized steel, so every step in the process must be carefully planned.

Some examples of the more effective adhesives for galvanized steel include:

• Epoxy Adhesives – It’s important to use the metal-bonding or industrial formulations of the epoxy.  Its high strength makes it a perfect choice for structural bonds. 
• Polyurethane adhesives — These not only provide a flexible bond, but they are also good for joints subject to vibration or movement
• MS polymer / hybrid adhesives — Not only are these weather-resistant, but they’re also paintable and offer flexibility. 
• Cyanoacrylate (super glue) — If you have a small project that will not be under excessive stress, these super glues provide a fast cure and simple solution.
• Structural acrylic adhesives —  Be sure to select the metal-bonding or industrial formulations of acrylic adhesives. Some of the advantages of these adhesives are that they cure quickly and can handle significant loads. 

How to Prep Galvanized Steel for Adhesive Bonding

If you don’t take these specific steps, you could be setting yourself up for failure. Surface prep is the most crucial step in the process if you want to create a reliable bond. 

The step-by-step preparation process includes:

• Degreasing
• Abrading
• Removing loose oxidation
• Applying a primer 
• Bonding promptly (this will avoid recontamination after you’ve prepped the piece)

How to Help Ensure Adhesives for Galvanized Steel Last 

Following the steps outlined above will go a long way toward a successful adhesive for galvanized steel prep. However, you should also:

• Allow the piece to fully cure before you apply any stress to it
• Take environmental factors (UV, temperature, moisture into account
• Be sure to test the adhesion on a small area first

Although we have given a lot of general tips in this article, we want to emphasize that it is crucial to follow all manufacturer guidelines for open times and mixing ratios.  

When You Need Reliable Service, South Atlantic’s Got You Covered

You need more than a vendor; you need someone you can trust. When your project and reputation are on the line, costly delays can cause serious issues and tarnish your reputation. But our one-step process makes it simple to get what you need, when you need it. And with our 25-point QA, all our materials meet or exceed ASTM standards.

We invite you to discover why South Atlantic has been trusted by national brands for more than 50 years. Get a hassle-free, no-surprises quote today.