Galvanized Wire: Specifications and Sizes

Galvanized wire is a versatile material used in various applications, from weaving wire mesh to fencing. It's manufactured by drawing low carbon steel wire and applying a zinc coating to enhance corrosion resistance.

 

Electro-galvanized Wire

Electro-galvanized wire is a type of galvanized wire that uses a thinner zinc coating applied through an electroplating process.

• Zinc Coating: Thinner layer compared to hot-dip galvanized wire. Offers moderate corrosion resistance, suitable for indoor applications or mild environments.
• Material: Primarily uses low carbon steel for its good balance of strength and formability.
• Wire Gauge: Standard sizes typically range from 8# to 16# (BWG), translating to diameters of approximately 3.2mm (0.126 in) to 1.3 mm (0.051 in).
  

Applications: Due to the thinner zinc coating, electro-galvanized wire is generally more cost-effective:

• Weaving wire mesh for screens and filters
• General purpose fencing
• Binding and wrapping
• Crafts and DIY projects

 

Hot-Dip Galvanized Iron Wire

Hot-dip galvanized iron wire offers a thicker and more robust zinc coating compared to electro-galvanized options.

Wire Gauge:

Hot-Dip Galvanized Wire: Offers a wider range of gauge sizes, typically from 8# to 24# (BWG), translating to diameters of approximately:

• 3.2 mm (0.126 in)
• 0.51 mm (0.020 in)

Material:

• Hot-Dip Galvanized Wire: Often utilizes high-carbon steel for its enhanced strength, making it suitable for demanding applications.

Zinc Coating:

• Hot-Dip Galvanized Wire: The hot-dip process creates a thicker and more adherent zinc layer compared to electro-galvanizing. This provides superior corrosion resistance, making it ideal for outdoor environments or areas with higher humidity.

Applications:

Hot-dip galvanized iron wire, due to its thicker zinc coating and superior corrosion resistance, is commonly used in:

• Construction and infrastructure projects like fencing for highways and railways
  Marine applications where exposure to salt water is a concern
• Harsh weather environments
• Situations requiring increased structural strength

Nots:

• Standards like ASTM A-475 can be used to specify the mechanical properties of the wire, such as tensile strength and elongation.
• Packaging options for galvanized wire can vary depending on the gauge, quantity, and application. It can include coils, spools, or cut lengths.

Galvanized wire, steel wire, annealed wire
wire gauge size	SWG(mm)	BWG(mm)	metric(mm)
8	4.06	4.19	4.00
9	3.66	3.76	-
10	3.25	3.40	3.50
11	2.95	3.05	3.00
12	2.64	2.77	2.80
13	2.34	2.41	2.50
14	2.03	2.11	-
15	1.83	1.83	1.80
16	1.63	1.65	1.65
17	1.42	1.47	1.40
18	1.22	1.25	1.20
19	1.02	1.07	1.00
20	0.91	0.89	0.90
21	0.81	0.813	0.80
22	0.71	0.711	0.70