Galvanized Zinc Coatings and Transformer Oil: Safe, Smart Check

Summary for galvanized zinc coatings Discussion

galvanized zinc coatings and transformer oil are discussed here in the context of whether zinc-lined containers can affect stored oil. Jayaprakash Rao asked if inside galvanizing needs paint to avoid any effect on transformer oil. The reply says transformer oil should be dry because moisture is what enables reactions; in transformers, moisture is a much bigger concern because it can cause arcing. The answer also states that zinc does not dissolve in or react with most mineral oils. However, it adds a caution that under certain conditions zinc may form a zinc metalo-organic compound. As a practical check, the responder recommends testing a sample piece by immersing it in the oil for a few days or weeks and comparing weight before and after to see whether any loss occurs. The thread does not recommend painting as a universal requirement.