Metals aren’t exactly cheap, and the last thing you want is for a fresh purchase to wear and corrode straight away. Zinc and zinc nickel plating are two solutions that have become staples in manufacturing, with each providing distinct benefits that adapt to the needs of the buyer.
To illuminate these benefits and help you make an informed decision for yourself, we’ve put together this article detailing why these types of plating have been on the rise.
Zinc plating: for cost-effective protection
The best way to think of zinc plating is as a sacrificial layer protecting your valuable steel from corrosion. Zinc is cheaper, easy to apply, and perfect for weathering the storm whilst leaving the underbelly unscathed.
Zinc acts as an anode, meaning it corrodes before the underlying metal does. This provides a secure layer of protection, and is most common in construction hardware and automotive fasteners. It’s even a popular choice for decorative finishes to add an aesthetic flourish that’s bright yet affordable.
Zinc nickel plating: for a superior performance
Whilst zinc plating functions well enough as a protective or decorative layer, a zinc-nickel alloy takes corrosion-resistance to the next level. Offering five times the protection during salt spray tests, it’s far more resistant. If you’re unsure whether it’s the pick for you, inquire with expert providers online, such as swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/zinc-nickel-alloy-plating.
This alloy is highly valuable within aerospace or automotive industries due to the need for high-performance materials in extreme environments. Zinc nickel can even reduce galvanic corrosion, making it ideal for pairing with aluminium.