Electroplating is a general name for processes that create a metal coating on a solid substrate through the reduction of cations of that metal by means of a direct electric current.
Zinc Coating is a sacrificial coating that is electroplated on to steel, providing rust protection and a smooth finish, extending the life of the material and increasing its appeal. Electroplating zinc is typically used on a wide variety of components like flanges, pipes, car parts, bolts, brackets, drilling equipment, fences and many more.
Benefits of zinc electroplating include excellent corrosion resistance of up to 96 hours NSS which is highly cost-effective and has the advantage of a chromate conversion layer to further assist with corrosion protection.
Zinc electroplating (as opposed to zinc galvanising) has the advantage of offering two high-gloss finishes which add to the visual appeal of the finished product.
Electroplated surfaces can be powder coated
Electroplating is often used on nuts and bolts and does not interfere with threaded surfaces
Electroplating provides good coverage in corners, making for superior corrosion resistance
The Rack Line:
Designed for larger jobs that can be placed on racks.
The still line can handle jobs up to 2900mm in length 1200mm in height and up to 600mm wide.
Our rack line uses an alkaline zinc process:
- Provides good brightness
- Provides good ductility
- Provides good passivated receptivity
- Provides reliable & consistent coverage
- Chromate conversions available are Bright Blue (Silver/Clear) & Gold (Iridescent Yellow)
- Is cyanide free
The Barrel Line:
Designed for small jobs that are unable to be racked. The barrel line uses an acid zinc which will give a brighter finish.
Our barrel line uses a chloride zinc process:
- Provides outstanding brightness
- Plates difficult substrates (such as steel castings & diecast zinc)
- Reduces abrasion & wear
- Improves lubricity
- Creates a non-toxic surface
- Chromate conversions available are Bright Blue (Silver/Clear) & Gold (Iridescent Yellow)
- Is cyanide free
Thickness of Zinc
The standard specifices 4 thicknesses according to severity of use:
Service Condition 1 mild dry indoor conditions minimum thiichness 5 microns
2 moderate corrosive conditions minimum thiichness 8 microns
3 severe corrosive and outdoors minimum thiichness 12 microns
4 exceptionally severe – marine minimum thiichness 25 microns
