Gatorshield tubing is derived from Allied’s original Flo-Coat product and is manufactured using the same advanced in-line processing galvanizing technique. Gatorshield tubing is created by adding 50% more pure zinc to the original process. All zinc coating protective measures are controlled to comply with ASTM specifications.
Over the years the product has benefitted from continuous advances in technologies and processes. Gatorshield tubing provides superior levels of corrosion protection, while having the ability to be painted or powder coated for aesthetic purposes with little advance preparation. In addition to its longevity, Allied’s cold forming process delivers higher strength levels than other competitive products. The product typically carries a minimum 50ksi yield and 55ksi tensile strength.
Gatorshield Tubing…It’s All Around You
Gatorshield tubing can be found in a number of applications such as mounting solar power equipment but it can also be found in a wide variety of everyday applications including:
- Dairy Stalls
- Greenhouses
- Fabric Buildings
- Frame & Awnings
- Cell Towers
- Cart Corrals
- Playgrounds
- Bus Stops
A Complete Product Line
With such a wide-range of uses Gatorshield must be versatile. Gatorshield is available in a variety of shapes sizes and wall thicknesses for use in the majority of mechanical and structural applications.
Heavier Zinc for Even Greater Protection
Allied’s signature process produces superior corrosion resistance by utilizing a triple layer of protection. First 99.99% pure zinc is applied followed by a conversion coating. Finishing the process is a clear organic topcoat that seals in the protection and produces a smooth shiny appearance. Gatorshield provides 50% more zinc than Flo-Coat making it ideal for outdoor or high moisture applications.
What is Gatorshield®? Gatorshield is our patented triple layer Flo-Coat® rust and corrosion resistant product protection that has demonstrated to be the best over the long haul versus all competitive product offerings. When rust and corrosion protection is needed – Gatorshield is “Gator Tough.” In addition, our zinc interior coating provides the inside of the tube with maximum corrosion and rust protection. Inside and out – Gatorshield is the best – and has been the best product choice for over 30 years. Gatorshield is a step above our traditional Flo-Coat product, demonstrating a thicker layer of zinc protection for extended longevity in highly corrosive environments. Best of all, Gatorshield is processed utilizing 99.99% pure zinc alloy with significantly less harmful lead content than generally encountered with pregalvanized or hot-dipped products. This means that lead oxide fumes during welding are kept to an absolute minimum. Gatorshield’s meets a minimum strength characteristic of 50,000 yield/55,000 tensile, reaching a maximum of 60,000 yield/75,000 tensile. Compared to the alternatives, Gatorshield performs extremely well in terms of fabrication properties:
What About the Gatorshield Steel Tube Product as it Relates to ASTM Standards?
- Base Metal: The steel strip used in the manufacture of Mechanical tube shall conform to ASTM A-569 for 1008-1010 Carbon Steels. For 1015 through 1022 Carbon Steel the steel strip shall conform to ASTM A-568.
- Zinc: The zinc spelter used in the manufacture of Allied’s Mechanical tube conforms to ASTM B-6 High Grade and Special High Grade Zinc.
- Chemical Composition: In accordance with ASTM A-500.
- Materials Testing: In accordance with ASTM-500 and ASTM E-8.