Our Solutions

Zinc Electroplating

Zinc plating solutions from RIE are suitable for automotive, industrial, military, commercial and utility markets, with our focus on rack plating and niche parts. Our technical expertise and premium services maximize your components’ durability and performance.

What Is Zinc Plating?

Zinc plating is an electroplating process that applies a thin layer of zinc to springs, fasteners and other hardware. During the process, electroplaters or metal finishing specialists remove surface oxides and immerse the parts in the plating solution. Plated high-strength steels may require post-process baking to relieve hydrogen embrittlement, as required by ASTM B633. This standard also states that electroplating should not be used for very high-strength steels due to the risk of hydrogen embrittlement.

 

Zinc Electroplating Specifications

Most parts plated under ASTM B633 receive a zinc coating on iron or steel. Zinc-iron alloy plating may be specified for applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance, especially where post-plate heat treatments or specific environmental exposures are factors.

Zinc plating usually produces a gray, matte finish, but brightening agents can be added to the plating solution to achieve a paler, shinier surface. Post-treatments can further tailor the finish to your requirements.

Under ASTM B633, zinc plating is described according to the minimum coating thickness:

  • Fe/Zn 5: A minimum of 5 microns thick, ideal for minimally corrosive, indoor applications.
  • Fe/Zn 8: A minimum of 8 microns thick, commonly used for hardware.
  • Fe/Zn 12: A minimum of 12 microns thick, ideal for outdoor and corrosive environments.
  • Fe/Zn 25: A minimum of 25 microns thick, designed for corrosive and heavy-duty applications.

ASTM B633 also defines service conditions that dictate the minimum zinc plating thickness required to protect the steel part in its intended environment. RIE works with clients to meet these service conditions, including:

  • SC1 (mild service): For minimal wear and dry, indoor environments
  • SC2 (moderate service): For mostly dry, indoor environments, with occasional wear, abrasion or condensation
  • SC3 (severe service): For outdoor environments that may include rain and cleaning agents
  • SC4 (very severe service): For harsh outdoor environments that may include exposure to road salt, weather conditions, industrial chemicals and significant abrasion

Benefits of Zinc Plating

Flexibility

Zinc plating can serve as a paint undercoat. Customize the final look with different finishes and colors.

Depending on coating thickness and exposure conditions, zinc plating can protect components for several years in harsh environments or even decades in mild, indoor settings.

The zinc plating’s thin, lightweight layer preserves precise dimensions for automotive and construction components.

Zinc plating bonds well and will not peel or flake. It also promotes paint adhesion, making it an option for components under cars, agricultural machinery and military vehicles.

Zinc plating provides sacrificial protection, corroding preferentially to shield steel components from rust, even if the coating is scratched. 

Fastener zinc plating supports critical applications in vehicles, structural assemblies and machinery.

Zinc Plating Services at RIE

From our ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100-certified Albuquerque facility, we handle zinc plating projects that require technical attention, precise specs or specialized processing. We use advanced technology and decades of expertise to recommend the right coating.

We specialize in niche parts and rack plating. Industrial clients and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) turn to us for zinc plating for higher-value, spec-driven parts. 

Why Choose RIE for Zinc Plating Solutions?

RIE Coatings has decades of experience with engineered coating solutions, including zinc plating. As an industry leader, we offer advanced solutions to enhance chemical resistance and protect parts.

Our engineers collaborate directly with your team, providing rapid responses. We can typically reply within hours for questions and 24 hours for quotes.

Get started with rie

Speak to an Engineer About Zinc Plating