There are many different options in finishing or surfacing of metal parts and component to protect against surface oxidation and corrosion. Parts can be painted or powder coated, or a variety of electroplating and passivation processes can be used to create a protective layer on the metal.
For a clear, bright and consistent looking coating on any metal part or component, zinc plating is the ideal solution in many applications. It allows a very thin layer of zinc deposit on the entire surface of the part, including in recesses in the part as well as on corners, angles, and interior and exterior surfaces.
Not all zinc plating companies use the same process and can produce the same results. It is worthwhile comparing the final products from different companies and choosing the process that is best suited to the requirements and properties for the specific application.
Protective Capacity
In general, zinc plating provides a superior protective coating for steel parts and components. It forms a precise, thin and very durable sacrificial coating for the metal. With even a thin deposit layer on the surface, exceptional corrosion resistance can be achieved. With the addition of passivation, this creates a self-healing coating that can withstand mild to moderate scratches and abrasion to provide advanced corrosion resistance throughout the life of the part.
Advanced technology in the process also provides precision deposits that are very fine grained, clear, and do not have the telltale burn markings often associated with older electroplating methods. This allows the OEM to use the parts without further finishing required.
With quality types of plating, it is not uncommon to see extended times to rust with salt spray exposure. This can include times of in excess of 240 hours of exposure to white rust and 480 hours or more to red rust.
