Are pneumatic bollards resistant to corrosion?

As a provider of pneumatic bollards, one question I'm frequently asked is whether these bollards are resistant to corrosion. This query is of paramount importance, especially for clients in environments where corrosion can be a significant concern. In this blog post, I'll delve into the factors that affect the corrosion resistance of pneumatic bollards, the materials used, and how we ensure our products can withstand the test of time in various settings.

Understanding Corrosion and Its Impact on Pneumatic Bollards

Corrosion is a natural process that occurs when metals react with their environment, typically oxygen and moisture. This chemical reaction leads to the deterioration of the metal, which can compromise the structural integrity and functionality of pneumatic bollards. In outdoor settings, factors such as humidity, saltwater exposure, and industrial pollutants can accelerate the corrosion process. For example, in coastal areas, the high salt content in the air can cause rapid rusting of unprotected metal surfaces. In industrial zones, pollutants like sulfur dioxide can react with moisture to form acidic compounds that eat away at the bollards.

The consequences of corrosion on pneumatic bollards can be far - reaching. It can lead to reduced operational efficiency, as corroded parts may not move smoothly or may become stuck. In severe cases, corrosion can weaken the bollard's structure, making it less effective at providing security or traffic control. This can pose a significant risk to public safety and may result in costly repairs or replacements.

Materials Used in Pneumatic Bollards and Their Corrosion Resistance

Stainless Steel

One of the most common materials used in our pneumatic bollards is stainless steel. Stainless steel contains chromium, which forms a thin, protective oxide layer on the surface of the metal. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching the underlying metal and thus inhibiting corrosion. The higher the chromium content, the greater the corrosion resistance.

However, not all stainless steels are created equal. For applications in highly corrosive environments, such as near the ocean, we use grades like 316 stainless steel, which has a higher molybdenum content. Molybdenum enhances the steel's resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, making it ideal for areas exposed to saltwater. Our Rising Pneumatic Bollards are often constructed from high - quality stainless steel, ensuring long - term durability even in harsh conditions.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is another option for our pneumatic bollards. Galvanization is a process where a layer of zinc is applied to the surface of the steel. Zinc is more reactive than steel, so when exposed to the environment, it corrodes first, sacrificing itself to protect the underlying steel. This sacrificial protection provides excellent corrosion resistance, especially in rural and suburban areas where the corrosion rate is relatively low.

The galvanizing process can be either hot - dip galvanizing or electro - galvanizing. Hot - dip galvanizing creates a thicker and more durable zinc coating, making it suitable for outdoor applications where the bollards will be exposed to the elements for extended periods. Our Remote Control Security Bollards can be made from galvanized steel, offering a cost - effective solution with good corrosion protection.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight and corrosion - resistant material that is also used in the construction of some of our pneumatic bollards. Aluminum forms a natural oxide layer on its surface when exposed to air, which provides a certain degree of protection against corrosion. This oxide layer is self - healing, meaning that if it is scratched or damaged, it will reform as long as there is oxygen present.

Aluminum is particularly suitable for applications where weight is a concern, such as in portable or easily movable bollards. Our Remote Parking Bollards can be made from aluminum, offering a combination of corrosion resistance and ease of use.

Additional Corrosion Protection Measures

In addition to using corrosion - resistant materials, we also employ several additional measures to enhance the corrosion resistance of our pneumatic bollards.

Powder Coating

Powder coating is a finishing process where a dry powder is applied to the surface of the bollard and then cured under heat. This creates a hard, durable, and protective coating that not only provides an extra layer of protection against corrosion but also offers a wide range of color options. The powder coating adheres well to the surface of the metal, filling in any small pores or imperfections and preventing moisture from reaching the underlying material.

Sealing and Gasketing

Proper sealing and gasketing are crucial to prevent moisture from entering the internal components of the pneumatic bollards. We use high - quality seals and gaskets to ensure that the bollards are weather - tight. This is especially important for the pneumatic systems, as moisture can damage the air cylinders and valves, leading to operational problems. By keeping the internal components dry, we can significantly extend the lifespan of the bollards and reduce the risk of corrosion - related failures.

Testing and Quality Assurance

To ensure the corrosion resistance of our pneumatic bollards, we conduct rigorous testing. We subject our products to salt spray tests, where the bollards are exposed to a salt - laden mist for an extended period. This simulates the harsh conditions in coastal areas and allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of the corrosion protection measures.

We also perform long - term outdoor exposure tests in different environments, including urban, rural, and coastal areas. By monitoring the bollards over time, we can identify any potential corrosion issues and make necessary improvements to our manufacturing processes and materials.

Conclusion and Call to Action

In conclusion, our pneumatic bollards are designed and constructed to be highly resistant to corrosion. By using high - quality materials such as stainless steel, galvanized steel, and aluminum, and employing additional corrosion protection measures like powder coating and proper sealing, we ensure that our products can withstand the challenges of various environments.

Whether you need Rising Pneumatic Bollards for high - security areas, Remote Control Security Bollards for access control, or Remote Parking Bollards for parking management, we have the right solution for you.

If you're interested in learning more about our pneumatic bollards or are looking to make a purchase, we invite you to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in selecting the best products for your specific needs and providing you with a comprehensive solution.

References

• "Corrosion of Metals: Understanding the Basics" by John W. Dillon
• "Materials Selection for Corrosive Environments" by Robert A. Cottis
• "Handbook of Pneumatic Systems and Components" by Heinz P. Bloch