Surface Finish · Plating
Zinc Plating
The economy rust-stopper: sacrificial zinc keeps protecting even when scratched.
Process specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Process group | Plating |
| Coating thickness | 5–25 µm |
| Tolerance impact | Adds roughly the coating thickness per surface, but unevenly — electroplating builds thicker at edges and points. Mask or post-tap toleranced threads; for external threads the plating consumes pitch-diameter allowance (specify 6g/6h accordingly). |
| Corrosion rating | 96–200 h salt spray with chromate seal (ASTM B633); protection is sacrificial, so scratches stay protected. |
| Appearance | Bright blue-white (clear trivalent chromate) or iridescent yellow; the familiar look of commercial fasteners. |
⚠ Not suitable for
Hardened steels above ~32 HRC without a post-plate hydrogen-embrittlement bake (we schedule the 190–220 °C bake automatically — flag heat treatment); marine or chemically aggressive service (upgrade to electroless nickel or powder coat); food-contact and high-temperature (>120 °C continuous) surfaces.
Works on these materials
Conditional compatibility
- Alloy Steel 4340
Hydrogen embrittlement risk on this high-strength steel — mandatory post-plate bake within 4 hours of plating.
Typical applications
- Brackets, plates and frames in general atmosphere
- Fasteners and commodity hardware
- Automotive underbody components
- Cost-driven corrosion protection at volume
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