What are the tips for maintaining steel in the Philippines?
- Purchase quality steel from a reputable supplier
- Perform regular maintenance checks
- Clean steel the right way
- Consider applying protective coatings
Steel is an alloy that has high tensile strength, but is affordably priced. For this reason, it is often used in various industrial applications. It is widely used in the construction industry because it can be designed in various forms — whether it’s flats, pipes, matting, and many others. Although they’re tough and durable, steel also needs upkeep to maximize its lifespan. To help you, here are some tips for maintaining steel in the Philippines.
Purchase Quality Steel From A Reputable Supplier
The quality and type of steel you purchase will affect its maintenance. That being said, ensure you choose the right steel products for your application.
For instance, carbon steel accounts for a majority of steel production. Low carbon steel is known for its high ductility, or ability to be stretched under strain — which is why it’s used in wires, bolts, and pipes. On the other hand, stainless steel is widely recognized for its corrosion resistance, and suits a wide variety of applications in construction, automotive, and heavy industries.
To ensure that you get the best quality steel that will last a long time, it’s recommended to find a steel supplier with a good reputation and high expertise in the industry.
Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
Whether it’s steel pipes or other materials, one of the most important things for steel maintenance is regular inspections. Once the construction or project is finished, you need to create a systematic schedule to ensure these checks. This way, you can easily spot small problems that can worsen in the future, and fix them.
Regular inspections can ensure that the building is safe for you and its users. Other than that, it can also help you save money that could have been used for major repairs and replacements.
Other than scheduled inspections, make sure to conduct checks after severe weather conditions. During these instances, there might be repairs needed. Don’t forget to keep a log of findings, so you can refer to these records in the future and find errors easily.
If you notice problems during your regular inspections, make sure to make immediate repairs. Even scratches, peeling paint, or tiny holes can become a big problem in the future if neglected. Water can make its way into these openings. But on-time repairs can help reduce the chances of serious problems, which can compromise the condition and lifespan of your steel components.
Clean Steel The Right Way
Cleaning steel structures is a part of preventive maintenance, and is also an important aspect to prevent rust and corrosion. This is because dirt and other contaminants can build up on steel, and lead to rust. With regular cleaning, you can prevent these problems and lengthen the steel’s lifespan.
Steel structures can be cleaned with a low-pressure power washer, as this can help get rid of the build-up of dirt, fungus, and other stains. After that, make sure to keep steel dry to eliminate the risk of corrosion.
In addition, it’s important to maintain cleanliness in your building. This way, you can prevent the buildup of dirt and grime on steel components, which can go a long way in prolonging their life span.
Consider Applying Protective Coatings
One recommendation to prolong the life of steel structures is to consider having them painted with protective coatings. These can protect the steel from the elements, and reduce problems. Make sure that the coating is compatible with the steel. You may also have to put on a protective coating after a few years. An excellent way to protect steel from corrosion is to have it galvanized or powder coated.
Other than coatings, it’s also a good idea to protect your steel structures from moisture too. This is because water can cause damage and lead to rust buildup. Make sure to direct water away from your structure, and install a good drainage system when needed.
Key Takeaway
Steel is a tough and durable material, but just like other construction components, they also require maintenance and upkeep. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can prolong their lifespan. It all begins with purchasing high-quality steel from a reputable supplier. Then you need to inspect your steel components and structures regularly and perform repairs if needed. Keep them clean, and consider protective coatings for maximum protection.
Follow these tips for maintaining steel in the Philippines, so you can maximize your investment. If you’re interested in steel products in the Philippines, you can check out our products here at Regan Industrial Sales, Inc. We are a company that offers a wide variety of steel products that adhere to high international standards. But aside from these, we can also provide convenience and speed in completing your projects through our value-added services such as galvanizing, pipe bending, sandblasting, and more.
