Zinc & Passivate
Zinc Plating
Zinc plating is commonly employed to safeguard metals like iron and steel from the persistent effects of corrosion. This process entails the electrodeposition of a thin layer of zinc onto the surface of a different metal object, referred to as the substrate. The zinc layer serves as a protective barrier, effectively preventing rust from penetrating to the underlying metal. In addition to establishing a physical barrier, zinc acts as a sacrificial coating. This means that the zinc coating will deteriorate rather than the metal substrate it is designed to protect.
Zinc delivers sufficient protection at low thicknesses, making it ideal for smaller components. However, it is standard practice to enhance most zinc coatings with a post-plating conversion coating, often referred to as a passivate. This process applies a thin layer to the zinc surface and is instrumental in defining the final colour of the coating. SGA offer two REACH registered hexavalent chromium-free coatings; clear (blue) & colour passivates.
Other Benefits of Zinc Plating
 | Enhanced durability — While zinc is a light metal, applying a zinc coating can significantly bolster the strength of the underlying material. |
| Minimal stress application — The process of applying a zinc coating does not impose excessive stress on the metal components, ensuring their integrity remains intact. |
| Barrel plating methods. |
| High ductility — Zinc possesses remarkable ductility, enabling it to be elongated into thin strands without fracturing. |
| Cost-effectiveness — Due to the abundant availability of zinc, it is considered a more economical option for plating compared to precious metals like gold or palladium. |
| Enhanced durability — While zinc is a light metal, applying a zinc coating can significantly bolster the strength of the underlying material. |
| Minimal stress application — The process of applying a zinc coating does not impose excessive stress on the metal components, ensuring their integrity remains intact. |
| Barrel plating methods. |
| High ductility — Zinc possesses remarkable ductility, enabling it to be elongated into thin strands without fracturing. |
| Cost-effectiveness — Due to the abundant availability of zinc, it is considered a more economical option for plating compared to precious metals like gold or palladium. |
