What Is a Galvanized Ground Rod Made Of?

Galvanized Steel

• Galvanized steel is standard steel coated in zinc. A galvanized steel ground rod contains a core of steel and an outer layer of zinc. This coating sometimes constitutes an alloy of steel and zinc, rather than a simple zinc coating. The layer of zinc used in galvanized steel drastically increases the corrosion resistance of steel, thereby increasing its natural lifespan. Numerous manufacturers use this material for metal devices, such as ground rods, that are exposed to corrosive elements, such as rain, snow and moisture, which can cause rust and destroy ordinary steel quickly.

Galvanizing Methods

• Numerous galvanizing methods exist, the results of which can create many differences in material performance. The hot dipping process creates the strongest, most corrosion resistant stainless steel because it integrates the zinc with the steel, forming an alloy. Hot dipping occurs when a manufacturer dips a piece of steel in molten zinc. The temperature of the zinc melts the outer layer of the steel, so that when the steel dries and hardens, it ingrates the zinc into its core structure. Galvanization also may entail using zinc paints to coat steel, or the application of zinc coatings or layers to a core of steel.

Shopping for Galvanized Rods

• When shopping for galvanized rods, pay careful attention to the material used by the company. Manufactures that use the hot dip process offer a superior product than those selling rods made from steel cores with affixed layers of zinc. Hot dip rods with a high percentage of zinc per volume unit provide better corrosion resistance than those with low percentages of zinc per volume. Check manufacturer literature on products to find information on the amount of zinc per volume in a specific type of galvanized rod.

Other Steel Grounding Rods

• The three common types of steel grounding rods are galvanized, copper bound and stainless. Stainless steel exhibits the greatest corrosion resistance, strength and lifespan, though this material also costs significantly more than the other two. According to an article in “Electrical Contractor,” copper-bound rods last longer and exhibit greater strength than galvanized rods. The copper on the former is significantly thicker than the zinc on the latter. Furthermore, copper exhibits greater corrosion resistance, especially when buried. According to “Electrical Contractor,” when buried, copper exhibits a lifespan of 40 years, while galvanized steel commonly lasts 10 to 13 years.