Overview: Magnelis® steel is a high-performance coated steel that offers up to 10 times the corrosion resistance of standard galvanised – at a fraction of the cost of stainless. If you’re sourcing material for harsh environments and want to understand whether it’s the right fit for your project, this article covers everything you need to know.
Why More UK Specifiers Are Making the Switch
When it comes to specifying corrosion-resistant steel, galvanised has been the default for decades, and stainless steel has been the premium fallback. But there is a third option that is gaining momentum as it outperforms both in the right conditions and costs significantly less than stainless steel. It is specifically built for harsh environments that standard coatings simply weren’t designed to handle.
That option is Magnelis® steel.
So, What Exactly is Magnelis® Steel?
Magnelis® is a metallic coating with an exceptional corrosion-resistance, applied to steel through a hot-dip galvanising process. The secret is in higher magnesium content which creates stable and durable protective layer across entire surface – giving Magnelis® not only superior corrosion resistance – up to 10x better than galvanised steel, but also unique self-healing quality that sets it apart from any alternative products on the market.
The Self-healing Effect – And Why it Matters
When exposed to environment Magnelis® steel generates a protective zinc film, which forms on the edges, welds, perforations and scratches. This is important for fabricators and manufacturers as it means cut pieces don’t need additional edge treatment – quicker turnaround and fewer steps in a supply chain.
Where is Magnelis® Steel Used?
Magnelis® is a perfect solution for applications where corrosion resistance and durability really matter:
- Renewable energy, solar infrastructures – used for support structures and anchoring systems designed for long term stability and outdoor environments.
- Construction – ideal solution for purlins, façade systems and steel framing.
- Agriculture – perfect for silos, irrigation systems and greenhouses.
- Other applications*:
- Rainwater and drainage systems
- Heating, ventilation and electrical enclosures
- Safety barriers and road infrastructure
- Garage and security doors
- Marine environments
- Outdoor and street furniture
- Switchgear and instrumentation
*When it comes to C5 applications Magnelis® is the most reliable solution.
Magnelis vs. Galvanised Steel?
If we look at the environments that really push materials to their limits, such as agricultural sites or saltwater exposure, Magnelis® delivers 7x more protection against ammonia and lasts 8x longer in saltwater than galvanised steel.
Magnelis® is also much easier to work with in the fabrication process – it can be easily cut with a laser, bends and forms well and can be punched and drilled without losing its corrosion resistance in the processed areas.
Furthermore, Magnelis® steel is also a sustainable choice, which matters to customers working on projects with ESG commitments and sustainability reporting requirements. Magnelis® is fully recyclable and uses considerably less Zinc than pure zinc coatings, which helps preserve natural resources and reduces zinc run-off into the soil. It’s also RoHS compliant material, meaning it’s lead and mercury free.
Where Can You Buy Magnelis® Steel in the UK?
This is where ASD comes in. Our OCS (Organically Coated Steels) team has been supplying Magnelis steel to customers across construction, agriculture, infrastructure, marine and other industries for years.
We stock and supply Magnelis coated steel sheets, and we can also process them in house. From laser cutting and cut-to-length to press brake forming, punching and drilling we can handle it all under one roof. Meaning no handover delays, no supplier coordination, just quick turnaround.
If you are looking for a reliable UK supplier of corrosion resistant steel, that can support both project specific requirements and ongoing supply needs, our team at OCS can help.