In any type of application, protecting the base metal or alloy is always a priority. By adding an electroplating layer to the surface of the metal or alloy, even durable surfaces can be built up to prevent corrosion and to resist damage from scratching and abrasion.
This protection is often created through the use of zinc electroplating processes. Unlike paint or other types of coatings, the electroplating actually bonds to the surface, developing an extremely durable finish. The choice of zinc plating also provides an aesthetically suitable solution for many types of industrial parts and components, eliminating the need for additional finishing or coatings.
The Ability to Form Sacrificial Coatings
Most people think of zinc electroplating, as with all types of coatings, as a single type of process that protects the metal. While this is certainly true, it is a very different protection than offered by paints or other types of coatings. In fact, the choice of zinc for the electroplating process allows the plating to interact with chemicals in the environment to further increase the protection for the substrate, which is the base metal.
The zinc reacts with hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide in the air to create zinc oxide, zinc hydroxide, and zinc carbonate. All of these compounds are created from the zinc plating and add to the ability to protect against rust and corrosion.
Cost Benefits
While zinc electroplating is not the solution for every industrial application, and it would not be used if the part or component is going to be placed in extremely high temperature situations, it is a very reasonable electroplating option.
It is a solution for both large and small parts and can be effective even when the part is very complex in shape. With the ability to control the thickness of the zinc plating layer, the choice of this electroplating option is ideal for many industrial applications.