Looking for the best protection to safeguard your industrial tools and equipment? Confused about whether to go for zinc plating and zinc coating? Well, you have a clear understanding of both these methods.
Both zinc plating and zinc coating are processes used to apply a protective layer of zinc to metal surfaces. Zinc plating involves a thin layer of zinc electroplated, while the zinc coating process includes hot-dipping, which offers a thicker protective layer. Both methods are preventive against corrosion.
Let’s discuss their differences in detail;
Overview of Zinc Plating and Zinc Flake Coating
Zinc plating, also popularly known as galvanization, uses electrical current to apply a thin layer of zinc to a metal component. The zinc then oxidizes, forming a protective layer of zinc oxide. The formation of zinc oxide acts as a protective shield against the base metal in order to safeguard it from environmental exposure. This coating’s high temperature process further prevents rust formation on metals. Zinc plating is mostly recommended to protect metals from water and air corrosion.
Zinc metal coating or zinc flake coating is the best solution for diverse industrial applications. It typically consists of a blend of zinc and aluminium flakes, which have to be applied in two layers. The combination of these layers meets the specific requirements of the application. When exposed to a corrosive compound, the zinc sacrifices itself to protect the base metal. This sacrificial process ensures the durability and protection of the coated part.
Applications of Zinc Plating
Zinc plating is suitable for indoor and mildly corrosive environments. Here are the common applications in different industrial sectors:
- Automotive industry: Used for brake callipers and steering transmission parts
- Military industry: Weapon and accessories and suspension components
- Hardware industry: Fasteners and rackets
Applications of Zinc Flake Coating
Zinc flake coatings are best for a variety of parts and system components across a wide range of industrial applications. These coatings are used in many different industries, including;
- Automotive industry: Fasteners, sub-frames, springs, and chassis assemblies
- Manufacturing: Used to coat threaded fasteners, bolts, pressings, nuts, springs etc.
- Energy Sector: Wind energy generators
- MEP industry: Construction components
- Commercial applications: Home appliances
Benefits of Zinc Plating
Apart from corrosion resistance, zinc plating offers several benefits:
- Increased strength
- Improved formability
- Enhanced recyclability
- Reduced material weight
- Highly affordable
Zinc Flake Coating Benefits
In addition to safeguarding metals from corrosion caused by atmospheric compounds, zinc flake coatings also offer numerous other advantages, such as:
- Witness better corrosion protection compared to zinc plating or other zinc coating types
- Offers greater versatility for parts of various dimensions. Also, it comes with different layers of thickness and colours.
- Delivers superior wear resistance and withstands extreme temperatures.
- Provides enhanced protection against hydrogen embrittlement.
- Exhibits some level of electrical conductivity.
Final Thoughts – Zinc Plating Vs Zinc Flake Coating
In conclusion, zinc plating is ideal for providing basic corrosion resistance with a thin, uniform layer that is suitable for mild environments. Zinc flake coating, on the other hand, offers superior protection, better wear resistance, and durability in harsher conditions. It is much more versatile compared to plating.
FAQs
Q1. Which coating offers long-lasting protection?
Zinc flake coating offers long-lasting protection compared to other types.
Q2. What is the thickness of the zinc flake coating?
Zinc flake coating in India typically ranges in thickness from 5 to 12 microns. In comparison to electroplated coatings, these zinc coatings are thinner at edges and crests and thicker at thread roots and recesses.
Q3. What is the average lasting period of zinc plating and zinc flake coating?
If exposed to the same corrosive elements, zinc plating will last up to 250 hours before showing damage signs. In comparison, a zinc-flake coating can endure for 1,500 hours or longer.
