ISMR May 2023 | Page 59

FOCUS ON SURFACE FINISHING

Humber Galvanizing , part of Wedge Group Galvanizing , was called upon to preserve a unique and unusual garden project . Katie Ventress , an artist blacksmith , was commissioned to create a bespoke piece of art for a former resident of Africa . She asked for help from longtime supporters , Humber Galvanizing Ltd , to protect the artwork for years to come .

Katie said : “ I was commissioned to create a unique piece from a customer who previously lived in Africa and wanted a garden sculpture to remind them of their time there and the magnificent animals . After much discussion , we decided on a baboon and I set to work designing this piece , taking inspiration from the ‘ Olive Baboons ’.

“ After all the careful planning and preparation , we wanted to ensure that the piece would be protected to the very best of our abilities against weathering or rusting . And , as it is being placed onto the

Edward Howell Galvanizers Ltd , part of Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd , is assisting part-time Formula One Contractor , Rob Sapinski , with the restoration of his classic car collection , to overcome the frequent challenge of rusting components .

Rob said : “ When I ’ m not working , I enjoy building Land Rover Defenders in my workshop . When restored , they ’ re incredibly fashionable , sought after and only increase in value due to dwindling numbers . Plus , I ’ m doing my bit for the environment ; I won ’ t be discarding it as soon as the engine is faulty or it ’ s done too many miles . Instead , there ’ s endless possibilities to change , restore and update it . With the help of Edward Howell Galvanizers , and other local companies who have helped , I ’ m restoring these Land Rovers so that they can stand the test of time .”

The major steel components ( including the chassis , bulkhead and axles ) are acid dipped at local business , Surface Processing , before Edward Howell Galvanizers collect and galvanize them . During the galvanizing process , the parts are dipped in a large bath of molten zinc at 450 º c , which provides them with an estimated rust-free lifespan of more than 70 years .

“ Jim and the team take great care when galvanizing to prevent the thin steel from buckling , and this precision and

Hot dipped Baboon

Accelerating a restoration project

roof of an outbuilding with a home only ten minutes from the sea on the North York Moors , we concluded that galvanizing would be the most appropriate solution . I asked for the assistance of Humber Galvanizing , with whom I ’ ve worked many times before , to ensure that the Baboon was ready for its new location .”

The Baboon was hot dipped in molten zinc , a treatment that produces a coating which is bonded metallurgically to the steel . This sustainable finishing process has the greatest resistance to damage and provides long-term protection against rust and corrosion .

“ Afterwards , I used a mild acid etch to dull the bright galvanizing finish , leaving only his face , hands and bottom a little darker ,” Katie continued . “ And , I ’ ve just received an enquiry about the possibility of having a Mrs Baboon , so watch this space !”

Land Rover restoration project .

attention to detail is really appreciated ,” Rob continued . “ But my latest project consists of parts that are very small . Luckily , another galvanizing plant in the Wedge family , B . E . Wedge Ltd , specialises in centrifuge galvanizing and was able to handle these . Centrifuge or spin galvanizing follows the same process as general galvanizing except that the work is placed in baskets to be galvanized and rapidly removed from the bath before the zinc on the work solidifies .”

The basket is placed in a centrifuge and spun for several seconds to remove excess zinc from the surface and prevent items from sticking together , ensuring a smooth finish . After galvanizing , the parts can also be powder coated or painted as specified , to further protect them from the elements .

Astronomical success

Jodrell Bank , a radio telescope site based in Cheshire , worked with Pendle-based fabricator , DP Structures , to create 17 galvanized frames to form the architecturally stunning installation called ‘ First Light Pavilion ’, as part of a new £ 25-millionpound project .

Jodrell Bank ’ s ‘ First Light Pavilion ’ is a science research institute providing an immersive planetarium experience to explore the depths of space and unearth stories of its pioneering scientists .

David Palmer , Managing and Creative Director , DP Structures , said : “ In 2021 , we were approached by Realm Projects to assist in designing and manufacturing projection frames for a new interactive area at Jodrell Bank . The interior had been designed by London architects Casson Mann , who had planned to utilise material from the old steel radio telescope dish to retain part of a heritage feature inside the new attraction by creating a curved amphitheatre .”

Tasked with the creation , DP Structures used sub-frames that formed a cradle which allowed for the integrity of the antique patina of the original dish to remain intact . The legs were fabricated using 200 x 200mm and 180mm RHS steel sections before being slotted together .

“ The legs of the frames were adjustable , with their height and angle able to move to align with the projection equipment , and so galvanizing was a necessity ,” David continued . “ The alternative was paint , but this would have easily scratched and ruined the overall aesthetic . After fabrication , we enlisted support from Manchester Galvanizing Ltd , where the legs were galvanized .”

The frames had a fibreglass enclosure with internal lighting which allowed them to glow within the dark surroundings . After years of planning , the exhibition opened in June 2022 as a permanent fixture . n

Jodrell Bank frames .

Jodrell Bank ( image : Casson Mann Architects .)

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