KS20 XPG® - sustainable cable ladder for atmospheric corrosion classes C1-C4

For several years now, we have been offering a new, certified, and extensively tested corrosion protection called XPG® alongside traditional hot-dip galvanized (HDG) products for C4 atmospheric corrosion class environments. The XPG® coating is a zinc-based metal alloy, with elements such as aluminum forming a thin film on the surface of the XPG® coating. This dense film enhances the corrosion protection properties of the coating compared to traditional zinc coatings. The corrosion protection of the XPG® coating is based on both cathodic protection and mechanical protection. XPG® provides similar corrosion protection in alkaline and acidic environments as other zinc-based coatings, while offering superior protection in chloride and ammonia-rich environments.

The manufacturers of the XPG® coating have thoroughly tested the coating. In addition to comprehensive tests conducted by the manufacturer, Meka has ensured that the XPG® coating meets high standards even when processed. Since spring 2018, we have been testing the new coating using various methods, such as continuous salt spray tests [ISO 9227, 550 h (equivalent to IEC 61537 class 6)], accelerated salt spray tests [VDA 621-415 (cyclic corrosion test)], penetrant inspection [SFS-EN ISO 3452-1], field tests in a real industrial environment, and bending tests at the University of Oulu.

The thin film that forms on the surface of the XPG® coating also protects areas of the product that are not coated, such as cut edges, welds, and scratches. However, under certain conditions, red rust may form on the uncoated surface of an XPG® product before the thin protective film can form. Over time, the film created by the XPG® coating covers any potential red rust, preventing steel corrosion. The speed at which the XPG® coating forms the film depends entirely on the environment. The more humid the environment, the faster the film forms.