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Metal Choice and Coating and for short outdoor durability

April 7, 2008

Hello

I'm a mechanical engineer, developing portable gardening equipment, mostly made of plastic (PP).
I have a new product that has two metal legs that will stand on the ground (grass, soil, concrete, etc.). The legs are designed to be made of a banded 22mm thin pipe (0.8mm for cheapest carbon steel). Leg length, before bending, is 80cm. A portion of the pipe is actually lying on the ground.
The legs color should be a good looking bright metal.

For now I'm considering a few options of material and coating:
- Carbon steel, panted. Probably using Epoxy-Polyester (metallic shade).
- Carbon steel, with metal plating like zinc, Ni-Ca or other.
- Aluminum, with metal plating like anodizing or other.
- Stainless steel.

It should hold for 3 years outdoor in the garden.

What do you suggest?
What is the most cost effective solution?
Do you have another solution that is not mentioned above?

I'll be grateful for a profound and quick reply.

Many thanks,

Eran N.
Customer - Israel

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Hi, Eran. I think phosphating followed by powder coating would be the least expensive thing that would meet your needs.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
April 8, 2008

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