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Simple test for galvanized metal

Is there an easy way I can test a piece of powder coated steel to check if it is actually galvanized under the paint? Thanks.

Byron Robinson
Manufacturing - Wayne, New Jersey
April 21, 2010

April 22, 2010

Hi, Byron. It is possible to do an XRF scan to look for the zinc, but I probably wouldn't call that idea easy.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

Destructive but simple test:
Carefully grind or sand the paint off trying not to abrade the metal beneath, then apply a drop of diluted muriatic acid over the exposed metal. In a few seconds a galvanized surface will start gassing and bubbling until all the zinc is dissolved. A bare steel surface will not be affected.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
April 24, 2010

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