Gabion Baskets
Design Life ChartLow Cost Stone Wall
GalFan ZGF 255 expected design life 50yrs to
150yrs
The estimated time to first maintenance for a
hot-dip galvanized coating that experiences common atmospheric exposure can be
seen below. Time to first maintenance is defined as the time to 5% rusting of
the substrate steel. The time to first maintenance of hot-dip galvanized steel
is directly proportional to the zinc coating thickness. Source American
Galvanisers Association www.galvanizeit.org
GalFan (95% zinc, 5% aluminium) has proven to be 2 to 3 times
more corrosive resistant than the same thickness of Hot Dip 100% zinc
Galvanising. Depending on the environment, it may take 50yrs to 150yrs for 5%
rust to show on the surface of GalFan ZGF 255 spec, when above ground.
BS EN 10244-2:2009 Zinc and zinc/aluminium-alloy coatings on steel wire. Class A Heavy Coating
When constructing gabion retaining walls in strongly acidic
soils (PH over 5.5), the soil and the corrosive groundwater must be separated
from the gabion structure by using geotextile fabrics and a properly designed
drainage system.
Good drainage behind and below your gabion retaining wall
will not only improve the retaining walls stability, it will also increase the
expected design life of the gabion wall
Below is a link to link to a 15 year long study on factors that effect the life span of gabions
In
the United Kingdom there are areas where local conditions create an increased
likelihood of corrosion.
Special consideration should be given to material selection and design in these
areas. They include:
1.
Coastal Environment
Within 1000m of the coast, characterised by: Light salt deposits A frequent smell of salt in the air In the immediate vicinity of large expanses of calm salt water such as harbour foreshores This environment may be extended inland by prevailing winds and local conditions.
2.
Industrial Environments
Within 500m of corrosive industrial emissions and subject to heavy fallout from
them.
