Can zinc-aluminum-magnesium completely replace galvanization?

After the successful development of zinc-aluminum-magnesium products domestically, claims emerged that “zinc-aluminum-magnesium will completely replace galvanization within three to five years.” This led numerous enterprises to consider establishing zinc-aluminum-magnesium production lines or converting their existing galvanization lines. But which direction is the actual situation likely to take?

Looking abroad for perspective, Japan, as the pioneer in researching and producing ‘medium aluminum’ zinc-aluminum-magnesium and the largest user in coastal construction, has exhibited growth in its zinc-aluminum-magnesium capacity as previously graphed. Europe, on the other hand, was the first region to study and produce low-aluminum zinc-aluminum-magnesium, with the highest application in automotive sheets, and similarly, its zinc-aluminum-magnesium capacity growth trend mirrors that of Japan’s.

Both statistical graphs indicate a steady, rather than exponential, increase in zinc-aluminum-magnesium production capacity, with recent signs of slowing growth. Typically, a product intended for full substitution would demonstrate an exponential growth curve with accelerating speed. Hence, from the standpoint of mature markets, the growth potential for zinc-aluminum-magnesium appears limited.

Comprehensively analyzing this, we conclude that zinc-aluminum-magnesium serves more as an improved version of galvanized products rather than a direct replacement. It is unlikely to fully substitute galvanized steel. In the future, zinc-aluminum-magnesium, as part of the thermally galvanized coating series, will hold a competitive position alongside products like aluminum-zinc-silicon and electroplated aluminum-silicon, finding specialized applications where it can exhibit unique advantages.

The market exploration, cultivation, and promotion of zinc-aluminum-magnesium products require further concerted efforts. Exporting zinc-aluminum-magnesium products to avoid taxes may not prove a sustainable strategy.

Nationwide, some companies that have started production have not witnessed the explosive market growth they anticipated, with room for improvement in product quality. Some have ceased production, while others are eager to enter the market. The outlook for zinc-aluminum-magnesium coated products should neither be over-hyped nor ignored but approached with scientific analysis and rational decision-making.

The advent and development of zinc-aluminum-magnesium enriches the continuous hot-dip coating product portfolio. Continuous hot-dip galvanizing processes, based on galvanization, gain even more vitality in competition against batch hot-dipping and electroplating, contributing significantly to environmental protection and energy conservation.

In summary, while zinc-aluminum-magnesium adds diversity to steel strip continuous hot-dip coatings, it is not positioned to fully displace galvanized products. Its role is complementary, carving out a niche in specific applications where its unique properties can be best utilized.