Clear zinc plating is a metal finishing process that is used on metals and metal components to give the metal protective properties against corrosion, abrasion, and strength as well as an enhanced appearance by allowing the natural color of the metal shine through. This type of finish is achieved through a process called electroplating, which works by using an electric current to coat a conductive object with a thin layer of metal for added strength and wear resistance. Zinc plating is a versatile process and be customized to suit the finishing needs of a variety of metal products and parts.
The Process
Zinc plating comes in a variety of colors, including colorless or transparent finish, called clear zinc plating. This type of plating is done in two parts. First the zinc plating is added through the use of an electrical current. After this is done, the metal is given its color through the addition of a chemical passivate which adds the color to the finish. This type of finish leaves the metal with the natural zinc color that has a slight iridescence ranging from blue to pink.
In the case of clear zinc plating, a clear passivate is used while in other styles of zinc coating a chromate or hex chrome is used to achieve a variety of colors. Zinc plating is available in other colors, like black, which can be added to this process depending on what type of part and industry it is being applied to for an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Benefits
This type of zinc plating is an affordable option to consider when looking to have parts plated. Zinc plating with a clear finish also offers the same protective properties, including wear resistance, strength, abrasion resistance, and corrosion resistance as the other zinc plating colors.
By allowing the natural metallic coloring show through, this type of zinc coating offers a bright finish. This type of plating also adds on more hours of salt spray corrosion protection on zinc plated products, compared to steel products without zinc coating. In addition to being affordable, it is also economical for parts, such as steel bolts that are sold with zinc plating which makes them last longer than a bolt without plating, lessening the need for frequent replacement.
