Types and applications of galvanizing
Galvanizing is the electrochemical or chemical deposition of a thin layer of zinc on metal. It is a protective surface treatment option designed to increase the durability, corrosion resistance and longevity of your parts.
hot dip galvanizing
Hot dip galvanizing is the mechanical deposition of zinc on parts. This process is suitable for improving the performance and aesthetic value of steel and immersing steel parts in a molten zinc solution. Zinc is combined with steel metal to appear silver or grey-blue. Functionally, the bond between the two metals protects the steel from corrosion and makes it durable.
Common uses and applications
Since paint thickness is difficult to control, hot dip galvanizing is the best method for non-tolerance plating. Common industries and parts manufactured using this process are:
1.Construction: Beams, columns and trusses used in bridges, highways and buildings
2.Utilities: Transmission towers, telecommunications poles, and water systems.
3.Automotive: Chassis, Frame and Body Panels
4.Agriculture: Fencing and livestock fencing
5.Infrastructure: railings, guardrails and highway guardrails.
yellow chromate coating
Yellow chromate coating or yellow zinc chromate coating is a post-treatment process for galvanized parts. It involves electroplating by immersing galvanized parts in a solution containing hexavalent chromium compounds. Direct current is passed through the plating solution, which coats the substrate with a bright yellow or gold chromate conversion coating. Chromate coating protects materials from oxidation and rust. Additionally, the color indicates corrosion resistance. As long as the color persists, the part is corrosion-resistant.
Common uses and applications
Yellow chromate coating is the best choice for parts that require short-term protection but do not have strict safety requirements. Common industries and parts manufactured using this process are:
1.Automotive: Fasteners and Brackets
2.Hardware: Bolts, Nuts and Screws
3.Consumer Products: Appliances, Furniture and Entertainment Equipment
Trivalent chromium process
Trivalent chromium coating involves electroplating by dipping galvanized parts into a solution containing trivalent chromium compounds. When direct current is passed through the solution, it deposits a yellow-green layer that protects the material from oxidation and rust. Trivalent chromate coating indicates that the part is corrosion resistant. As long as the color persists, the part is corrosion-resistant. It also has an aesthetic function. At the same time, this is an alternative to the traditional hexavalent chromium plating method (yellow chromate coating). It does not use carcinogenic and toxic hexavalent compounds. Therefore, it is more environmentally friendly.
Common uses and applications
Trivalent chromium plating is suitable for several industries due to its better environmental impact. They include:
1.Automotive: trim, emblems and decorative parts
2.Consumer Products: Faucets, Fixtures and Other Home Appliances
3.Hardware: Fasteners, fittings and other hardware
Transparent galvanized layer
Transparent zinc plating is an electrochemical deposition of a thin layer of zinc on the base metal. After cleaning the substrate using mechanical, chemical and electrochemical methods, it is immersed in a bath containing only zinc salts. Direct current is passed through the plating solution to deposit a zinc layer on the substrate. The coating has a transparent tint, i.e. it reveals the natural color and texture of the substrate. The transparent zinc plating uses only zinc ions (without other additives such as chromate), which reduces the corrosion resistance of the part. Therefore, it reduces their use in harsh environments.
Common uses and applications
Clear galvanized coatings are typically used indoors or in controlled environments where corrosion resistance requirements are moderate. Transparent galvanized layer is suitable for the following industries:
1.Hardware and Fasteners: Bolts, Nuts, Screws and Other Hardware Parts
2.Automotive parts: brackets, hinges and clips
3.Electronics: electronic housings, connectors and other components
4.Consumer Products: Furniture, Appliances and Fixtures
5.Architectural Applications: Hardware, Signage and Decorative Elements
Colored zinc alloy paint
Colored zinc alloy coating is similar to clear zinc coating, although it has added elements such as aluminum or nickel. After cleaning the substrate, the parts are immersed in a bath containing zinc and controlled amounts of aluminum and nickel salts. Direct current is passed through the plating solution, depositing a thin layer of zinc, aluminum, and nickel on the substrate. Depending on the type and concentration of additives, you can have a variety of colors.
These unique colors due to different metals make them aesthetically appealing. Therefore, they are suitable for both decorative and functional applications. Additionally, the part has better corrosion resistance compared to clear galvanizing and hot-dip galvanizing.
Common uses and applications
Applications for colored zinc alloy coatings include:
1.Automotive: Colorful Trim, Badges and Decorative Accents
2.Consumer Products: Furniture, Fixtures and Appliances
3.Hardware and Fasteners: Bolts, Nuts, Screws and Other Hardware
4.Architectural Applications: Signage and Building Facades
5.Electronics: Enclosures and Connectors
Parts manufacturers consider galvanizing more of a protective process than an aesthetic process. In addition to the traditional silvery hue imparted by this process, other galvanizing techniques and post-processing methods can also change the color of the final product.