Summary for hydrogen fuel viable Discussion
hydrogen fuel viable for a non-electric galvanizing kettle is the central question, but the thread excerpt provided does not include any actual discussion or answers beyond a books advertisement. Because no technical responses are visible, there is no evidence here to support a conclusion about whether hydrogen is a practical fuel choice for heating a galvanizing kettle. The only identifiable content is a suggested reading list, including "Faults in Hot-Dip Galvanizing" by Dietrich Horstmann, which may be relevant background for galvanizing operations. Without the missing thread replies, no named answerer advice or outcome can be summarized accurately.
SUGGESTED GALVANIZING BOOKS
for Engineers, Shops, Specifiers

“Hot Dip Galvanizing of Steel Structures” by Kuklik & Kudlacek (2016)
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“Handbook of Hot Dip Galvanization” by Maass & Peissker (2011)
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“Galvanized Steel Reinforcement in Concrete” by Stephen Yeomans (2004)
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“Hot Dip Galvanizing — A Guide to Process Selection & Galvanizing Practice” by M. J. Hornsby (1995)
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“Faults in Hot-Dip Galvanizing” by Dietrich Horstmann (in English, French & German)
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“User’s Guide to Hot Dip Galvanizing for Corrosion Protection in Atmospheric Service” by NACE (1997 only rarely avail.)
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Amazon
(as an Amazon Associate & eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases)
We are considering alternatives to electric heating of our galv kettle. Natural gas is not available, and there is a long waiting list on LPG connections. Could hydrogen from an industrial hydrogen generator be a suitable and cost-effective solution?
Francois de Villiers
Galvanizer – Johannesburg, South Africa
October 30, 2009
A. Francoise
Hydrogen/air mixtures are explosive in all proportions. All parts of the burner must be flushed with nitrogen before igniting. The flame is invisible. The flame temperature is higher than oxy/acetylene welding mixture, it will almost certainly melt the kettle.
If you have a power supply capable of generating enough hydrogen, it should be possible to install electric heaters.

Geoff Smith
Hampshire, England
A. Hi Francois.
What is the primary reason for wanting to change away from electricity?
Steven Evans
galvaniser – SA Australia
I think diesel would be preferable to hydrogen. Various oils would work.
Galvanizing was done for decades on coal fired furnaces. (not recommended for long kettle life)

Geoff Crowley
Crithwood Ltd.
Westfield, Scotland, UK
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The CNG (compressed natural gas) can be used, in our plant, we use natural gas, but in the case of breaking of natural gas, we use CNG..
You can try this method is best way to prevent big problems
(solidification of molten zinc)
and Calorific value of both sources is similar, therefore there is no burner off problem.

Hakan Esen, Material Engineer(BSc.)
galvanizing plant manager – Bursa, Turkey
January 26, 2010
