Z4 - a better choice for the environment
We are constantly seeking new materials that are more environmentally friendly and can make everyday life easier. A close collaboration with installers like you is therefore crucial to us. Here, we present the material we call Z4, which not only performs better in outdoor environments than traditional hot-dip galvanizing but also proves advantageous for installations in data halls where avoiding Zinc Whiskers is a priority.
Click here to read more about Zink Whiskers and how to avoid it.
Electro-galvanization is a process in which a thin layer of zinc coating is applied to the surface of a metal, typically steel or iron, to protect it from corrosion. The process involves immersing the metal in an electrolyte solution (a solution that conducts electricity) along with zinc anodes (zinc material that releases zinc ions). When an electric current passes through the bath, the zinc ions react with the metal surface, forming a dense zinc coating on the surface of the metal.
Pre-galvanization This is a method where, for example, a steel coil passes through a bath of zinc for a short period. Air knives or mechanical drying remove the excess, resulting in a good surface finish. The coating on the zinc layer is slightly thinner than hot-dip galvanization, and the sheet is then processed into products.
Hot-dip galvanization, also known as immersion galvanization, is a process where a processed product is dipped into molten zinc to create a protective zinc layer on the surface. The finished product now has a thin but highly durable zinc layer that shields the metal beneath it from corrosion.
Z4 wire mesh trays
Wire mesh trays are a good choice for cable installation, especially in data centers, where electro-galvanization might seem like a natural surface treatment option. However, considering the issues with Zinc Whiskers, this surface treatment should be avoided.
As early as 2017, wire trays made of Z4 material were introduced. This replacement of traditionally hot-dip galvanized wire mesh trays was indeed a gamble, but a better product that is environmentally friendly and simultaneously priced lower was a winning concept.
Moreover, the corrosion resistance is better compared to immersion-galvanized wire mesh trays. The coating thickness is at a minimum of 85 µm, as opposed to a traditional hot-dip galvanized product, which is normally a maximum of 60 µm. Some accessories cannot be manufactured in Z4 due to material thickness, so in those cases, hot-dip galvanized is the alternative.
Therefore, for installations in data centers, choosing wire mesh trays with Z4 surface treatment and Sendzimir-galvanized (S) accessories is recommended. For outdoor use, accessories in hot-dip galvanized finish are chosen if not available in Z4.
When it comes to cable trays, the Z4 material is also available
When it comes to cable ladders, the Z4 material is also available.
It follows the same manufacturing process as with wire mesh trays, hence post-production surface treatment is unnecessary. The metal self-heals after cutting or perforation, whereas a traditionally hot-dip galvanized tray requires protection on the exposed surfaces to prevent rusting. The surface treatment thickness is a minimum of 85 µm, compared to a traditional hot-dip galvanized product, which is normally a maximum of 60 µm. Some accessories cannot be manufactured in Z4 due to material thickness, so in those cases, hot-dip galvanized is the alternative.
The cable ladders with accessories are approved for environments up to corrosion class C4.
A sustainable choice - fewer transports, higher corrosion resistance, and a lower price!
Traditional hot-dip galvanized cable ladder after 1050 hours salt test.
Traditional hot-dip galvanized cable ladder after 1050 hours salt test.MP bolagen Z4 material for cable ladders
Good environmental choices according to Byggvarubedömningen and Sunda Hus
The products made of Z4 material have been assessed by both Byggvarubedömningen and Sunda Hus. These are databases that compile the environmental and sustainability impact of products. With an account, for example, an electrical installer can search for a product and find out its environmental impact.
The result from the Byggvarubedömningen is "Recommended", and from Sunda Hus, the assessment is "A".
Click to go to Byggvarubedömningen
