In a significant environmental and technological advancement, Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH has announced the complete transition of its hot-dip galvanized steel production to chromium-free passivation technology. The company completed this transformation in early 2024, following a systematic conversion of its three hot-dip galvanizing lines between September and December 2023.
The new passivation technology represents a major step forward in sustainable steel production. Unlike the previous chromium (III)-containing process, the new method eliminates both heavy metals and nitrates from the passivation layer, which serves as a temporary corrosion protection for galvanized steel products, including the company's StronSal® line.
The transition follows extensive research and validation conducted by Salzgitter Mannesmann Forschung, involving multiple operational trials and comprehensive customer testing. Laboratory results have demonstrated that the new chromium-free passivation actually provides superior corrosion protection compared to its predecessor, while maintaining equivalent performance in critical areas such as tribological properties, paint adhesion, bonding suitability, and weldability.
"This innovation represents our commitment to environmental stewardship without compromising product quality," said a company spokesperson. "The successful implementation across all our galvanizing lines demonstrates that sustainable solutions can enhance rather than diminish product performance."
The development is particularly significant for industries requiring high-performance galvanized steel, as it offers an environmentally responsible alternative that meets or exceeds previous quality standards. The company has made detailed technical information available through a new data sheet on chromium-free passivation and offers technical customer support for implementation queries.
This technological advancement aligns with growing global demands for more sustainable industrial processes and stricter environmental regulations. By eliminating chromium from its passivation process, Salzgitter Flachstahl has positioned itself at the forefront of environmentally conscious steel production while maintaining its commitment to product excellence.
The successful transition to chromium-free passivation represents a significant milestone in the steel industry's ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact while advancing technological capabilities. This development could potentially influence industry standards and encourage wider adoption of environmentally friendly passivation technologies across the global steel sector.
