After more than a decade in the South African roofing fastener industry, we can safely say that the impact of corrosion on roofing fasteners and roofing materials is a critical concern in South Africa, given its diverse climate and landscape. The findings of the corrosion map of South Africa’s macro atmosphere highlight the importance of choosing the right roofing materials and coatings based on the regional climate and atmospheric conditions.
The Impact of Corrosion on Roofing Fasteners and Materials in South Africa
In coastal regions, which have a higher corrosion potential due to high humidity levels and salt spray, the use of highly corrosion-resistant materials and coatings, such as our market-leading Protapp Fastener, is recommended to extend the lifespan of the roofing systems. Similarly, in regions with high atmospheric pollution, the use of coatings that can provide additional protection against harmful pollutants is necessary.
Roofing fasteners play a crucial role in the overall performance of a roofing system. In high-corrosion areas, the use of corrosion-resistant fasteners, such as our market-leading Protapp Fastener, is essential to ensure that the roofing system remains secure and stable over time.
Corrosion Zones in South Africa: Insights from the Macro Atmosphere Corrosion Map
The corrosion map of South Africa’s macro atmosphere provides valuable information for those involved in the design and maintenance of metal roofing systems. By using this information, they can make informed decisions about the materials and coatings to use, ensuring that the roofing systems are built to last and can withstand the effects of the South African macro atmosphere.
In addition to the information provided in the previous section, recent findings have shown that South Africa is divided into various corrosive zones based on the proximity to the ocean and the atmospheric conditions.
According to the latest study on atmospheric corrosion in South Africa, the area within 150 meters of the ocean is classified as extreme (CX) corrosive. This is due to the high humidity levels and salt spray from the ocean, which can accelerate the corrosion process. The corrosiveness of the atmosphere decreases as the distance from the ocean increases. Between 150 meters and 1000 meters, the atmosphere is rated mid-C4 (high) to mid-C5 (very high) corrosive.
From 1 km to 30 km, the atmosphere is rated moderate (C3) to high (C4) corrosive. Inland locations are rated low (C2) to potentially high (C4) corrosive. The highest atmospheric corrosivity is typically found in the Western Cape, close to the ocean, and the lowest corrosivity can be found in the Karoo and the Kalahari Desert.
- 150 m from the ocean is classified as extreme (CX) corrosive.
- 150 m to 1000 m marks an environment rated mid-C4 (high) to mid-C5 (very high) corrosive.
- 1 km to 30 km marks an environment rated moderate (C3) to high (C4) corrosive.
- Inland locations, low (C2) to potentially high (C4) corrosive.
These findings are important for engineers, architects, and policymakers in South Africa as they provide valuable information for the design and maintenance of metal structures in the country. By understanding the corrosiveness of the atmosphere in different regions, they can make informed decisions about the materials and coatings to use in metal structures.
In conclusion, the latest findings on corrosive zones in South Africa provide a comprehensive picture of the atmospheric corrosiveness in the country. By using this information, metal structures can be designed and maintained to withstand the effects of the South African macro atmosphere, and extend their lifespan.
