Galfan-coated automotive steel improves fabrication and performance

CIM Bulletin, Vol. 80, No. 906, 1987

RICHARD F. LYNCH, Zinc Institute Inc., New York, N.Y., and FRANK E. GOODWIN, International Lead Zinc Research Organization, Inc. New York, N.Y.

The development of Calf an, a new generation 95% zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy coating for steel, offers opportunities for greater fabrication flexibility and upgraded corrosion performance in automotive applications. The formability ofGalfan is equivalent to that of electrogalvanized steel, based on laboratory tests and automotive component fabrication. Corrosion resistance of Galfan exceeds that of hot dip and electrogalvanized, including performance in automotive industry tests. Automotive production applications for deep drawn and stamped components in France and Germany are based on the ability to meet dual performance requirements for upgraded formability and corrosion resistance. The first U. S. Galfan application was on 1985 model Ford cars and light trucks for transmission oil cooler lines which has now expanded into a number of power steering tubing uses.

Keywords: Materials engineering, Metallurgy, Galfan, Steel alloys, Alloys, Corrosion resistance, Steel formability, Coated steels, Zinc.