<![CDATA[Corrosion is one of the main factors causing a reduction in the service life of steel components in electrical power distribution systems, including pole brackets for 20 kV power poles. One method of protection is zinc coating through hot-dip galvanizing and electroplating. This study aims to analyze and compare the corrosion resistance of these two coating methods on steel strip as the base material for pole brackets. The research method employed was an experimental study measuring corrosion rates using the weight loss method. Specimens measuring 43 mm × 3.5 mm × 80 mm, which had been coated via hot-dip galvanizing and electroplating, were tested by immersion for 168 hours in 5% and 10% NaCl and H₂SO₄ solutions. The results showed that electroplating yielded better test results than hot-dip galvanizing, producing a smoother and more uniform coating under all test conditions. Consequently, the corrosion rate was lower, particularly in the 10% H₂SO₄ solution. This indicates that the lower corrosion resistance of the hot-dip galvanized specimens is likely influenced by imperfections in the coating resulting from the galvanizing process. Observations revealed the presence of physical defects such as flash, pinholes, and surface irregularities, which create potential entry points for corrosion. Additionally, while coating homogeneity is a factor, the greater thickness of the hot-dip galvanized coating still has the potential to provide a longer protective life under field application conditions]]>
Copyrights © 2026
