Supporting critical utilities infrastructure for the UK

Supporting critical utilities infrastructure for the UK 5

The utilities sector is vital for any modern economy, providing essential services such as electricity, water, gas, and waste management that support residential, commercial, and industrial activities. With around 743,000 people directly or indirectly employed in the UK utilities sector, it forms a huge part of the economy, equating to one in 48 jobs.

At Corbetts, we play a key role in helping construct and maintain the infrastructure backbone required to reliably distribute these critical utilities. Our unique galvanizing process provides long-lasting corrosion protection for steel components used throughout the utilities sector, keeping them in prime shape for many years to come. Some typical products we galvanize are listed below.

Strut Channels

Galvanized strut channels provide superior corrosion resistance for mounting, bracing and supporting pipes, electrical wiring, HVAC systems and other utility infrastructure.

The protective coating protects against moisture, chemicals and environmental factors that can cause premature rusting of bare steel struts. This extends the service life and structural integrity of these support systems.

Ladder Cable Trays

The open design of ladder cable trays allows maximum airflow and prevents moisture/gas buildup around utility cables and wiring. However, this also exposes the steel to potential corrosion.

Thanks to galvanizing, ladder trays are therefore shielded from rusting, even in damp conditions like basements or coastal areas. Cabling can be securely tied down without fear of corrosion weakening the tray over time.

Supporting critical utilities infrastructure for the UK 6

Cantilever Arms

Used to support HVAC units, electrical boxes, cable trays and more, galvanized cantilever arms offer robust anchoring while preventing unsightly rusting and deterioration.

The protective coating provides protection at the critical mounting points to walls and surfaces. This maintenance-free solution is ideal for utilities applications with limited accessibility.

Cable Trays

In addition to ladder style, Corbetts galvanizes enclosed cable trays that serve as rigid structural raceways for power, control and communications cabling.

The galvanized zinc coating prevents internal rusting that can jeopardize cable integrity. It also inhibits external corrosion from exposure to moisture, chemicals, or hazardous gases commonly found in industrial environments served by utilities.

Covers

Corbetts galvanizes various types of covers used in utilities infrastructure, such as drain covers and entrance covers.

Galvanizing these steel covers provides excellent corrosion protection against water, chemicals, and other harsh environmental conditions they may be exposed to. This helps prevent premature degradation and failure, ensuring drain systems, access points and other covered areas remain functional over the long term.

Conduit

Galvanized steel conduit provides a durable channel for conveying water, electrical cables, fibre optic lines and other utilities between facilities like reservoirs, treatment plants and distribution networks.

The hot dip galvanized coating safeguards the conduit inside and out from corrosion caused by moisture, soil, chemicals or electrolytic conditions it may encounter underground or in exterior applications.

The importance of the utilities sector

With the continued growth of digital communications, the hospitality industry, and renovations for commercial buildings, the need for durable, exposed cable management systems continues to rise. Galvanized steel delivers a practical, yet aesthetically pleasing solution that protects and reinforces. Beyond corrosion resistance, hot dip galvanizing also provides a superior service life, low maintenance requirements, and full recyclability at the end of a product’s useful life, helping to support sustainability objectives.

The utilities market is projected to reach a value of £175 billion by 2027, employing over 740,000 people in the UK alone. As this critical sector continues to grow and transition towards renewable sources, Corbetts stands ready to safeguard the infrastructure backbone with high-quality galvanized steel components.

Contact us today to discuss how our hot dip galvanizing expertise can protect and prolong the life of your utility infrastructure assets.

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Galvanizing Specialities

In addition to our general galvanizing offer, we also have in-depth experience and expertise in the following key specialities.