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Galvanized vs Galfan Gabion: Which Wire Coating is Better for Your Project?

Dateļ¼š09 25, 2025

Galvanized vs Galfan Gabion Baskets: A Comprehensive Comparison

(H1) Galvanized vs Galfan Gabion: Choosing the Right Corrosion Protection

Selecting the appropriate wire coating is one of the most important decisions when specifying gabion baskets. The choice between traditional galvanized steel and Galfan coating significantly impacts the longevity, performance, and cost-effectiveness of your structure. This detailed comparison will help you understand the key differences and make an informed decision for your project.

(H2) Understanding the Basic Composition

Galvanized Gabions:

  • Coating: Pure zinc (99.5% Zn)

  • Coating Weight: Typically 200-300 g/m²

  • Application: Hot-dip galvanizing process

  • Appearance: Bright silver-gray finish

Galfan Gabions:

  • Coating: Zinc-aluminum alloy (95% Zn, 5% Al with mischmetal)

  • Coating Weight: Typically 180-250 g/m²

  • Application: Hot-dip process similar to galvanizing

  • Appearance: Slightly darker gray than galvanized

(H2) Key Performance Differences

1. Corrosion Resistance
Galvanized Gabions:

  • Provides basic corrosion protection

  • Zinc sacrificially protects the steel base

  • Suitable for moderate environments

  • Expected lifespan: 20-50 years depending on conditions

Galfan Gabions:

  • 2-3 times better corrosion resistance than standard galvanized

  • Aluminum forms a dense barrier layer

  • Zinc component provides sacrificial protection

  • Excellent performance in harsh environments

  • Expected lifespan: 50-100+ years

2. Mechanical Properties
Galvanized Gabions:

  • Good flexibility and formability

  • Standard tensile strength: 350-500 MPa

  • May develop "red rust" when coating is compromised

Galfan Gabions:

  • Superior flexibility and adhesion

  • Better resistance to mechanical damage

  • Enhanced durability during installation

  • More consistent coating distribution

3. Environmental Performance
Galvanized Gabions:

  • Performs well in rural and urban atmospheres

  • Moderate resistance to chemical exposure

  • Vulnerable to acidic or alkaline conditions

Galfan Gabions:

  • Excellent performance in marine and industrial environments

  • Superior resistance to salt spray

  • Better tolerance for pH variations

  • Ideal for coastal applications

(H2) Cost Comparison

Initial Cost:

  • Galvanized: Lower initial investment (15-30% less than Galfan)

  • Galfan: Higher upfront cost but better long-term value

Lifecycle Cost:

  • Galvanized: May require maintenance or replacement sooner

  • Galfan: Lower maintenance costs over the structure's lifespan

(H2) Application Guidelines

Choose Galvanized Gabions When:

  • Project is located in inland, non-aggressive environments

  • Budget constraints are primary consideration

  • Design life requirement is under 30 years

  • Structure is easily accessible for maintenance

  • Freshwater applications without chemical exposure

Choose Galfan Gabions When:

  • Project is in coastal or marine environments

  • Long service life (50+ years) is required

  • Structure is difficult or expensive to maintain

  • Industrial or chemical exposure is expected

  • Critical infrastructure projects

  • Salty or acidic soil conditions

(H2) Technical Specifications Comparison

Parameter Galvanized Gabions Galfan Gabions
Coating Composition 99.5% Zinc 95% Zinc, 5% Aluminum
Salt Spray Test Hours 500-1,000 hours 1,500-3,000 hours
Coating Adhesion Good Excellent
Maximum Service Temperature 200°C (392°F) 300°C (572°F)
Color Change Over Time Dull gray to whitish Uniform dark gray

(H2) Installation and Handling Considerations

Both Types:

  • Use appropriate lacing wire or spirals

  • Follow standard installation procedures

  • Avoid dragging baskets over rough surfaces

  • Wear gloves to prevent coating damage

Special Considerations for Galfan:

  • Enhanced flexibility may make handling easier

  • Better resistance to installation damage

  • Maintains integrity even when bent sharply

(H2) Making the Right Choice for Your Project

For Budget-Conscious Projects:
Galvanized gabions offer adequate protection at a lower cost for many applications.

For Long-Term Investments:
Galfan gabions provide superior value through extended service life and reduced maintenance.

Critical Factors to Consider:

  1. Environmental conditions at the project site

  2. Required design life of the structure

  3. Accessibility for future maintenance

  4. Total budget including lifecycle costs

  5. Performance requirements and safety factors

(H2) Professional Recommendation

While both coatings have their place, Galfan gabions are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for permanent structures due to their superior corrosion resistance and longer service life. The slightly higher initial investment is often justified by significantly reduced maintenance costs and extended performance.

Need Help Choosing? Contact our technical team for personalized recommendations based on your specific project requirements, environmental conditions, and budget considerations. We'll help you select the perfect gabion solution for your needs.