Resources & Guides / Building Codes & Standards / ASTM & UL Standards / ASTM A1063
ASTM A1063
Steel, Sheet, Twin-Roll Cast, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) by the Hot-Dip Process
Overview
ASTM A1063 is a cutting-edge standard covering twin-roll cast galvanized steel sheet, which represents a revolutionary near-net-shape production method. Unlike traditional galvanizing where pre-made steel sheet is dipped in zinc, twin-roll casting creates the steel sheet and applies the zinc coating in one continuous process directly from molten steel. This produces ultra-thin galvanized sheets (typically 0.7mm to 2.0mm) with exceptional coating uniformity and surface quality.
Technical Specifications
- Zinc coating designations: Z001 through Z100 (per side)
- Three steel types: Commercial Steel (CS), Drawing Steel (DS), Structural Steel (SS)
- Thickness range: 0.028" to 0.079" (0.7mm to 2.0mm)
- Superior coating uniformity compared to batch galvanizing
- Minimal coating thickness variation edge-to-edge
Primary Building Applications
- Light-gauge steel framing for residential construction
- Metal deck and composite floor systems
- Architectural panels and rainscreen systems
- HVAC ductwork requiring corrosion resistance
- Purlins and girts in pre-engineered metal buildings
Process Advantages
The twin-roll casting process eliminates multiple steps in traditional steel production, reducing energy consumption by up to 80% compared to conventional methods. The molten steel solidifies between two counter-rotating water-cooled rolls while simultaneously receiving its zinc coating. This creates an exceptionally strong metallurgical bond and produces steel with finer grain structure, leading to better formability despite the thin gauge.
Specification Considerations
When specifying A1063, note that the limited thickness range makes it unsuitable for heavy structural applications. However, for light-gauge applications, it offers superior surface quality and coating consistency compared to A653 galvanized steel. The twin-roll cast process also produces material with excellent flatness and minimal residual stress, critical for automated fabrication and roll-forming operations commonly used in light-gauge steel construction.