
plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989
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Is black iron or galvanized pipe better for fire exit handrails?
June 13, 2012
Q. Which type of pipe is more practical to use for fire exit handrails, black iron pipe or galvanized iron pipe?
Thank you.
- Philippines
A. Hi Kevin.
Black iron (plain steel) pipe will have no inherent corrosion resistance, whereas galvanized pipe will. On the other hand, it will be difficult to field paint galvanized pipe, and relatively easy to paint black pipe. So, if you intend to do a nice painting job, black will be better; if not, galvanized will be better.
Regards,

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