Gate post metal type?

[JRobyn]

My posts are recycled 4" galvanized tubular steel (hot-dipped?). Found 'em at the metal recyclers and the guy GAVE them to me. I don't know what "schedule", but the 10ft pieces weigh maybe 80lbs. As far as I know, they are regular fencing gate or corner posts.

They showed no signs of deterioration when I got them except that they had obvious signs of having been partially encased in concrete. I've had them up for maybe 5 years and they are showing zero signs of any deterioration. Unbelievably rigid with a 16ft swing gate. Almost zero deflection even when standing on the far end of the gate. I do have them concreted (grouted) into 4ft deep holes drilled into rock, backed up with a 1/2" rebar "pin".

 

[mvwwld4u]

Hot dipped galvanized is about as good as you can find and practical for a decent price. It's best to weld in an open area due to the toxic fumes of the coating and the first pass is better done with a 6010 rod to burn through the coating unless you desire to grind the coating off which is time consuming and a pain. Following passes can usually be done with a 7018 rod fairly easy. Most any chain link fencing company should be able to get the galvanized material you would need or give you a supplier that can get it for you if your usual supplier can't get what you need. Also, any schedule pipe you desire can be gotten in galvanized. I've personally made welds on 6" sch 160 pipe.