Large sheets can be break pressed which will reduce the distortion to smaller areas T wisting may occure even though the measures have been taken Folding of plate will introduce a certain amount of strentgh and reduce the possibility of distortion Chart 1 Dr ainage holes for overlapping surfaces steel thickness 12 125 cm P R E V E N T I N G D I S T O R T I O N Bolted and welded assemblies v arying in thickness can cause deformities or distorsion T his is caused by the v ariations in heating and cooling of the pieces It is recommended to galv anize these structures prior to assembly Assembly can then be completed by welding and reconditioning or by means of bolting or riveting with pregalv anized hardw are Distortion can also occur during the release of welding stresses in the k ettle T herefore proceed with welding within guidelines to balance out these stresses Reasons for distortion Distortion is almost alw ays attributable to Release of existing or created stresses in the steel welding laminating forming Expansion constr aints for assemblies of v arying thicknesses when galv anizing Assemblies requiring different immersion speeds This can be avoided by Design symmetry and proper sequencing of assembly A design that allows for quick immersion and withdr aw al in the zinc k ettle In thinw all applications when possible use reinforcements that are omega or diamond shaped When in doubt request advice from your galv anizer 26