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Metal Choice and Coating and for short outdoor durability

April 7, 2008

Hello

I'm a mechanical engineer, developing portable gardening equipment, mostly made of plastic (PP).
I have a new product that has two metal legs that will stand on the ground (grass, soil, concrete, etc.). The legs are designed to be made of a banded 22mm thin pipe (0.8mm for cheapest carbon steel). Leg length, before bending, is 80cm. A portion of the pipe is actually lying on the ground.
The legs color should be a good looking bright metal.

For now I'm considering a few options of material and coating:
- Carbon steel, panted. Probably using Epoxy-Polyester (metallic shade).
- Carbon steel, with metal plating like zinc, Ni-Ca or other.
- Aluminum, with metal plating like anodizing or other.
- Stainless steel.

It should hold for 3 years outdoor in the garden.

What do you suggest?
What is the most cost effective solution?
Do you have another solution that is not mentioned above?

I'll be grateful for a profound and quick reply.

Many thanks,

Eran N.
Customer - Israel

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Hi, Eran. I think phosphating followed by powder coating would be the least expensive thing that would meet your needs.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
April 8, 2008