Question: galvanized steel

[Jared Eason]

I came across some dividers For a part bin . They are galvanized. Could I use them as practice plates or will the galvanized metal be an issue? In asking this galvanized tin could be used also if there isn't any issues with the galvanized metal.

 

[Beladran]

Galvanizing is just a zinc coating.. Zinc is right up there with lead on softness. Should cut fine just don't weld it !

 

[Jared Eason]

Thanks. I did know not to weld it. Cannot say I haven't in the past before they decided to tell us that the fumes can kill you. Lol

 

[Dave London]

I would not mess with that stuff it can flake off and cause nasty painfully cuts. Don't ask how I know
Mild steel plates are cheap, cold rolled is easier to prep a lot less scale. Speedy metals is a good source, no charge for cutting

 

[Big-Un]

Don't bother with the galvanizing. Heat, either by welding, grinding or any other method results in dangerous fumes. When I was a certified welder, we always wore respirators and took extra precautions with anything galvanized. The fumes eliminate calcium in the body, so we were required to take substantial amounts of calcium tablets and drink tons of milk. At most places I worked, the company supplied the milk. Fortunately, I love cold milk and a gallon a day was good to me!

Bill

 

[Jared Eason]

Sounds like it goes on the no list then. Thanks guys

 

[JJ Roberts]

Jared, I buy all my practice plates from GRS, mild carbon steel 2x2's and 2x4's just polish with wet & dry automotive paper and your ready to go. J.J.

 

[Jared Eason]

Thanks, Guess that's probably the best rout.

 

[monk]

zinc is useful only to apply to a babys' sore bottom !

 

[Southern Custom]

Jared,
for practice plates on the cheap, Home Depot sells bars of mild steel in 2in size. They are not perfectly clean but a bit of prep work and you have excellent practice material.
Layne Z

 

[Jared Eason]

Had considered that. Lowes is closer and has the same thing .its a shame 304 ss is not good for engraving, I have a but load of it.