Zinc coating offers more than just excellent protection against corrosion. There are many other reasons to choose zinc plating:
- Corrosion Resistance - Zinc coating improves the corrosion resistance of your parts, and increases the lifetime of the steel. Zinc is easily capable of up to 240 hours until base metal corrosion with a high end chromate.
- Friendly to the Environment - Zinc coating is considered to be a relatively eco-friendly process, especially when compared to it's cadmium counterpart. Zinc also offers the advantage of recyclability.
- Aesthetic appeal - Zinc coating can improve the appearance of an iron or steel part or component. The introduction of colors during post-treatment can also help you customize the look of the finished product.
- Control of Hydrogen Embrittlement - Zinc Coatings are less susceptible to the development of hydrogen embrittlement, a condition where metal becomes brittle due to the diffusion of hydrogen in the surface. However, appropriate hydrogen embrittlement relief procedures should be implemented with plating of high-strength metal fasteners and springs.
- Ductility - Zinc is an extremely ductile metal, meaning it can be stretched into long, thin strands without breaking. This makes zinc easy to contour to the shape of the underlying substrate.
- High Temperature Tolerance - Zinc electroplating can tolerate temperatures of about 120° F. Zinc plating cannot withstand temperatures that exceed 500° F because it's protective corrosion ability begins to decrease if the temperature exceeds 212° F. Generally, zinc plating should not be done if it is exposed to temperatures that exceed 500° F after electroplating.
- Flexibility - Zinc is compatible for use in a wide range of bath Chemistries, providing greater flexibility for customizing the plating outcome. Zinc is also amenable to both rack and barrel plating processes.
- Low-Stress Deposit - Applying a zinc coating will not place an undue amount of stress on a metal part or component.
- Increased Strength - Although zinc is a relatively lightweight metal, a zinc coating can increase the strength of the substrate
- Low Cost - Because zinc can be found in abundance, it is viewed as a more cost-effective plating process than when using precious metals such as gold or palladium. This makes zinc plating a preferred choice for any company that is keeping a close eye on expenditures.
- Works Well as Undercoats - In case your applications entail e-coating or painting, zinc electroplating can be a very effective undercoat owning to its exceptional adhesive properties. Undoubtedly, it will also improve a coated or painted surfaces' corrosion resistance.
- Bright Finish - Sometimes, plating is used to enhance a metal surfaces' appearance. This is often done to make a metal part more attractive to prospective customers. Zinc plating can offer a brightness level that is a chromium equivalent. The levels of brightness can be controlled using a range of additives.