Mild Steel vs. Galvanized Iron — What's the Difference?

Mild steel epitomizes a variation of carbon steel with a relatively low amount of carbon, making it notably malleable and ductile, thus widely applicable in various industries. In contrast, galvanized iron represents either iron or steel that has undergone a zinc-coating process, not only to prevent corrosion and rust but also to prolong its durability, especially in exterior applications.

A prominent characteristic of mild steel is its inherent vulnerability to rust when exposed to moisture or corrosive environments, which often necessitates additional treatments or coatings for applications in certain environments. Unlike mild steel, galvanized iron confidently boasts a robust defense against rust and corrosion, thanks to its protective zinc layer, making it a preferred choice in environments where moisture presence is significant.

Mild steel finds its applications in a multitude of structural applications, such as beams and columns, due to its excellent weldability and ability to withstand weight. Divergently, galvanized iron, due to its anti-corrosive properties, finds extensive application in outdoor scenarios such as roofing, piping, and fencing, ensuring longevity and sustained visual appeal even in weather-exposed conditions.

In manufacturing processes, mild steel is acknowledged for its ease of welding and forming due to its low carbon and manganese content, rendering it a preferred choice for manufacturing where shaping, bending, or welding are requisite. Galvanized iron, with its supplementary zinc layer, can be slightly more challenging to manipulate in terms of welding and forming, as the coating may be affected by high heat or deformation, potentially reducing its efficacy.

The cost-effectiveness of mild steel often makes it a go-to material for mass production and large-scale manufacturing, especially where corrosion resistance is not pivotal. Conversely, galvanized iron, while potentially incurring higher initial costs due to the galvanizing process, may prove more cost-effective in the long term in applications where resistance to weathering and corrosion are paramount.