Avoiding Manufacturing ProblemsAvoiding Manufacturing Problems

Metal is used in most modern manufacturing processes. Since metal is such a valuable part of many products that are used today, there are important techniques that are necessary to protect the material from corrosion and extreme temperatures. One such option is zinc-nickel plating, an alloy that creates an incredibly strong finish on metal parts. Commonly used in the aerospace and automotive industries to maintain the structural integrity of essential items, zinc-nickel finishing is a reliable way to apply a special coating to metals for long-lasting effects. To learn more about zinc-nickel plating and its benefits, continue reading below. 

1) Zinc-nickel plating works by providing a shield for metal against various outside elements. 

When metal is exposed to certain environmental factors, it becomes susceptible to breaking down over time. Moisture or humidity can cause corrosion and severely damage the metal. Zinc-nickel plating acts as a protective coating to preserve the durability of the metal. As long as the zinc-nickel plating is in place, corrosive oxidation will attack the special alloy mixture instead of eating away at the metal itself. High temperatures can also adversely impact metal products to the point where they crack, although zinc-nickel finishing can help with thermal stress as well. The continuous resistance against the elements makes zinc-nickel plating valuable for metal products that operate under high heat and in areas that are prone to corrosion.

2) Zinc-nickel plating also prevents physical damage. 

Physical wear and tear is significantly reduced with zinc-nickel plating for a few vital reasons. First, zinc-nickel finishing involves smoothing the alloy onto metal pieces in even layers, creating an exceedingly hard surface with very few imperfections. This consistent uniformity allows the metal to withstand any long-term damage from friction. Second, zinc-nickel plating is able to endure galvanic corrosion without completely destroying the metal underneath. This means that corrosion won't happen, even when the two metals repeatedly rub against each other. For example, many automotive parts function because both steel and aluminum components must work in tandem. The two disparate metals grind together, but they don't wear down if zinc-nickel plating is present to safeguard the pieces from the constant abrasion.

3) Zinc-nickel plating is an environmentally sound option for industrial manufacturers that are looking for an alternative to cadmium. 

For years, cadmium was the standard substance utilized when coating metal surfaces for corrosion resistance. While it does create powerful results for metals, cadmium is also quite hazardous for the environment and poisonous to humans. As such, cadmium isn't widely used anymore. Zinc-nickel plating is a much safer alternative to cadmium plating. In fact, zinc-nickel finishing produces all of the protective properties of cadmium without the harmful consequences. Additionally, zinc-nickel plating can be used in even more industrial applications than any other metal coatings. The positive impacts of zinc-nickel plating make it the ideal solution for a variety of manufacturing purposes.

Zinc-nickel plating is one of the best ways to keep metal parts intact for much longer than would be possible without any protection at all. If you're interested in finding out how the process can work for your manufacturing needs, reach out to a zinc-nickel plating service to get started.