Can galvanized pipe withstand high temperatures?

High-temperature Resistance of Galvanized Pipe:

Galvanized pipe (GI Pipe) is a type of pipe where zinc is coated onto the surface of a steel pipe to improve its corrosion resistance. Besides good corrosion resistance, galvanized pipe also possesses a certain degree of high-temperature resistance. However, this high-temperature resistance is not unlimited; it is limited by the materials and processes used in the galvanizing layer.

Temperature Range that Galvanized Pipe can withstand:

Specifically, the temperature range that galvanized pipe can withstand under normal operating conditions is typically below 200 degrees Celsius. This is because at high temperatures, the zinc layer may undergo an oxidation reaction, reducing the protective effect of the galvanized layer. Furthermore, high temperatures can weaken the bond between the galvanized layer and the steel pipe substrate, and may even cause peeling.

However, some galvanized pipes undergo special processing, such as high-temperature galvanized pipe, which can withstand relatively higher temperature ranges. These types of galvanized pipes use special materials and processes to enhance their stability and corrosion resistance in high-temperature environments. Even so, the temperature that high-temperature galvanized pipe can withstand typically does not exceed 400 degrees Celsius.

Precautions for Using Galvanized Pipes in High-Temperature Environments:

When using galvanized pipes in high-temperature environments, the following points should be noted:

1. Avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures to extend the service life of the galvanized pipes.
2. If galvanized pipes must be used in high-temperature environments, it is recommended to choose high-temperature galvanized pipes that have undergone special processing.
3. Regularly inspect the appearance and performance of the galvanized pipes to promptly identify and address any potential problems.

Safety Usage Recommendations:

Safety should always be the top priority when using galvanized pipes in high-temperature environments. In addition to the above-mentioned recommendations for selecting the appropriate type and regular inspection, the following points should also be considered:

1. Installation and Maintenance: Ensure that the galvanized pipes are installed following correct operating procedures to avoid problems such as thermal stress concentration or thermal deformation caused by improper installation. Regular maintenance is also crucial, including cleaning impurities and checking the tightness of connections.

2. Environmental Monitoring: In high-temperature environments where galvanized pipes are used, a temperature monitoring system should be installed to monitor changes in ambient temperature in real time, allowing for timely adjustments or protective measures.

3. Emergency Response Plan: For potential abnormal high-temperature situations, corresponding emergency response plans should be developed, including emergency cooling measures and leak handling procedures, to ensure the safety of personnel and property.

Selection Recommendations:
Safe Applications: Suitable for transporting medium- and low-temperature (< 150℃) fluids such as domestic hot water, heating, and air conditioning.

Prohibited Applications: Not suitable for use in critical high-temperature areas of steam systems, high-temperature industrial pipelines, and fire protection systems.

Selection Principles: When the temperature in your application environment consistently exceeds 150℃, seamless steel pipes should be strongly considered; when the temperature is even higher or there are corrosive requirements, stainless steel pipes or alloy steel pipes should be selected.

Conclusion and Outlook:
Galvanized pipes possess certain high-temperature resistance, but the specific temperature range they can withstand is limited by the materials and processes used. Under normal operating conditions, galvanized pipes can typically withstand temperatures below 200 degrees Celsius. Even with special processing, the temperature that high-temperature galvanized pipes can withstand will not exceed 400 degrees Celsius. Therefore, when selecting and using galvanized pipes, it is necessary to make a reasonable selection based on the actual application environment and requirements.

Looking to the future, with the advancement of technology and the development of new materials, we expect the high-temperature resistance of galvanized pipes to be further improved to meet the needs of more high-temperature environments. At the same time, it is also necessary to pay attention to the safety and environmental performance of galvanized pipes in high-temperature environments to ensure their stable and reliable function in various application scenarios.

Read more: BS 1387 Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel Pipe or Galvanized Seamless Steel Pipe