TAC Sponsor Spotlight Article – Corbec
Since 1965, Corbec has been a trailblazer in Canada’s galvanizing industry, setting standards for quality, innovation, and environmental stewardship. The company plays a pivotal role in helping Canada achieve its climate goals, including net-zero emissions by 2050. Corbec’s commitment to sustainability is especially relevant as the construction sector faces increasing environmental challenges.
Driving Sustainability Through Innovation
At the heart of Corbec’s operations are its state-of-the-art galvanizing plants, recognized as some of the most advanced in North America. Corbec was the first Canadian company to implement a “capture and treat” system to manage process air emissions, exceeding regulatory requirements and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, its robust waste recycling systems optimize efficiency and reduce ecological harm by reusing materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Strategic Operations Across Eastern Canada
With five plants strategically located in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia; Montreal and Quebec, Quebec; and Hamilton, Ontario, Corbec is well-positioned to meet diverse client needs. The plants feature kettles ranging from 42 to 56 feet, enabling the company to handle projects of varying sizes and complexities.
Corbec supports its clients throughout the project lifecycle, from planning to execution. During the preliminary design phase, the company’s experts work with project teams to identify requirements, streamline processes, and resolve potential challenges. Clear, open communication and technical expertise ensure unparalleled service and quality.
Efficient Galvanizing Processes
The galvanizing process involves three critical stages: surface preparation, galvanizing, and inspection. This straightforward yet specialized process requires advanced facilities, skilled teams, and quality assurance protocols to deliver durable and reliable steel products.
Partnering for Progress
Corbec fosters strong collaborations with clients to deliver innovative and tailored solutions. A key example of its innovation is the ability to bend rebars after galvanization—introduced over 15 years ago. This process minimizes risks of breakage, embrittlement, or coating damage, enhancing structural integrity while offering a cost-effective solution.
Adapting to Industry Transformation
As Canada strives for net-zero emissions and updates building codes such as the National Building Code and the Canadian Bridge Code, public infrastructure projects are under increasing pressure to reduce carbon footprints. Corbec is a trusted partner in achieving these goals, supplying sustainable galvanized steel products that support durable and resilient construction.
Galvanized steel, with its durability and low maintenance, is ideal for roads, bridges, and large-scale projects. Additionally, duplex systems—paint applied over galvanizing—extend corrosion protection, particularly in aggressive environments where in-service painting is challenging and costly.
Environmental Leadership Through EPDs
Corbec is the first galvanizing company in North America to issue plant-specific Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Certified by third-party auditors and published by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), these EPDs provide detailed insights into a product’s environmental impact.
Corbec’s galvanized steel products boast a global warming potential (GWP) approximately 15% lower than the industry standard. For galvanized rebar, the GWP is significantly lower than alternatives such as stainless steel and glass fiber-reinforced polymer rebar. This reduction is attributed to zinc’s unique corrosion resistance properties, which prolong the lifecycle of reinforced concrete structures.
A Competitive Edge in Sustainability
Corbec’s EPDs set it apart in the construction industry, offering designers and specifiers data-driven solutions to minimize environmental impact. By demonstrating the environmental and economic advantages of galvanizing, Corbec empowers stakeholders to achieve project performance goals while meeting sustainability standards.
Shaping the Future of Sustainable Steel Protection
“Our commitment to innovation and sustainable practices ensures Corbec will remain a leader in steel protection,” says Dr. Hellen Christodoulou, Executive Vice President of Engineering and Sustainability. “We are not just protecting steel by ‘Galvanizing Better’—we are protecting the environment.”
As Canada moves toward a greener future, Corbec continues to lead the galvanizing industry, combining advanced technology, sustainable practices, and unmatched expertise. Through its dedication to quality and environmental responsibility, Corbec is helping build a stronger, more sustainable Canada.
