If you are looking for an exceptional corrosion resistance coating for metals, zinc is one of the best choices. However, when you need a coating which has outstanding properties, you may wish to consider zinc nickel alloy plating. In fact, you will enjoy a number of benefits with this choice.
Better Than Cadmium?
For many years, cadmium was considered to be the standard for corrosion resistant coatings. However, within the past few decades, there has been a great deal of interest and concern about the toxicity of cadmium. In fact, one should not be exposed to this material for very long periods of time. In addition, cadmium coatings are very expensive, and a less toxic and cost effective alternative has been sought for some time. Today, many businesses believe zinc nickel alloy plating is the solution to this problem.
Can It Really Replace Cadmium?
Zinc nickel has been tested and studied in detail by many manufacturers and with excellent results. In fact, its corrosion resistance properties are on an even keel with cadmium with one important addition. Zinc nickel alloy plating does not come with the environmental issues cadmium presents. It can be created to conform to many different corrosion resistance specifications and is even good for use in harsh environments.
Benefits of Zinc Nickel
Besides its obvious anti corrosive properties, you will receive these benefits with zinc nickel alloy plating:
* Can be used in marine environments – in fact it is proven to be effective in saltwater and has withstood as many as one thousand hours of saltwater spray testing
* Is sacrificial to steel as it corrodes
* Does not become brittle
* Can be used in high temperature areas
* Offers as much as 400 percent more resistance to corrosion than standard zinc coatings
* Excellent hardness
Superior to Standard Zinc Plating
Zinc nickel alloy plating provides increased protection to corrosion and is much better than standard zinc coatings. In fact, it sees a great deal of use in the automotive industry today. Some companies are increasing this corrosion resistance by with post treatments like lacquers, sealants, and oils. Because of its resistance to corrosion and heat, it is being used in under the hood applications of vehicles. In fact, auto corrosion protection has increased so much (due to zinc nickel alloy plating) some auto manufacturers have now increased their rust warranties to 7 years from the previous 5 year warranties.
