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Galvanized steel: How to tell if steel is zinc coated, and how to remove coating

I am a glass artist. I want to use stainless steel forms in my work but cannot use any steel that is galvanized because I work at high temperature and the coating would burn off and be toxic. If an object is not identified as galvanized how can I tell if it is or isn't? If it is coated, can the coating be removed easily by sanding?

Michele Rubin
glass art - Ellicott City, Maryland, USA
2006

I have personally never heard of galvanized stainless steel, Michele, so if you are always using stainless steel then I don't think it's an issue.

Galvanizing/zinc coatings are not "toxic" (zinc is an essential nutrient); but it is possible for welders to overdose and get "metal fume fever" by inhaling too much of it. I'm not sure if overdose is a realistic concern in your situation or not. But yes, it can be sanded away. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
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finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
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