Can zinc alloy die casting parts be plated or coated, and what are the common finishing techniques?

Introduction

The process of die casting for zinc alloy can obtain precision zinc die casting parts. We can plate or coat these parts for property enhancement or decoration. In this article, we will to see the how can zinc alloy die casting parts be plated or coated and what are the common finish process in the industry.

Zinc Alloy with Plating and Coating Suitability

Zinc is a good corrosion-resistant and strong material that can be used directly; however, some coating consideration is needed since zinc will be prone to react. Due to their chemical properties, zinc alloys are suitable for many plating and coating processes, but a zinc attractive for oxygen makes it hard for coatings to adhere well. They're also indispensable for surface prep of the substrate that needs to be coated so that they adhere properly and provide the required components of protection and appearance.

Pre-processes that are Common

But in order for plating or coating finishes to be successfully applied on the surface of zinc alloys, surface preparation is required. For cleaning we use degrease to take off oils, and acid pickling to remove surface oxides. This is followed by activation and sensitization processes to prepare the surface to allow plating or coating to adhere well to it. These pre-treatment steps are essential for the long-lasting nature and performance of the implementation product.

Techniques of Electroplating on Die Cast Parts of Zinc Alloy

Using electroplating, one of the most common approaches; this process reduces metal ions to form a metal deposit on the surface of the zinc alloy. They tend to be nickel or chromium or copper in nature and generally provide some significant properties, e.g. resistance to corrosion, and/or simply decoration to the part. Another well-known process that is also not energy intensive but provides a more consistent coat especially on complex geometries is Electroless plating. Hot-dip galvanizing: Dipping of the iron / steel structure in a bath of molten zinc, resulting in a thick corrosion resistance coating.

Coating Process of Zinc Alloy Die Casting Parts

But powder-coating, the other form of a dry-finish process is almost similar to the liquid painting process only that it utilizes the dry-powder type but achieves the electrostatic in the same method and the curing process is then performed by heat as a different process. It's a relatively heavy weather-resistant plastic, and is offered in a number of colors and finishes. The oxide layer is produced by an electrochemical process — more widely known as anodizing: the conversion of the surface of the zinc alloy into an oxide layer that has high durability, esthetic and corrosion resistance. Paint coating is an old practice where a special kind of paint is applied onto the face of a component to obtain protective and decorative characteristics after everything sets perfectly into Zinc alloys.

Post-Treatment Processes

After plating or passes through coating process, parts are verified or do Qc's after passed from numbers of Proper Check points as specification/manner requirement need to satisfy by particular parts. Other actions still exercised in surface area prep work procedure including polishing as well as buffing to offer precise surface area finish as well as sealing as well as hardening to coating or maybe plating.

Mar 26, 2019 Advantages Of Platting And Coating On Die Cast Zinc Alloy Parts

The Advantages of Zinc Die Casting Parts–Durable Protection from Corrosion and Wear–Improved Aesthetics–Branding–Functional Improvement–Improved Component ValueCorrosion and wear protection from die casting parts can add years to the life of components.

Challenges and Limitations

Plating and coating enjoy several merits but also suffer extensive limitations due to economical and environmental burdens. Choosing the right plating or coating method is pivotal because the method of plating itself can impose technical limitations and introduce failure points.

Conclusion

Afterwards the zinc alloy die casting parts are generally plated or coated depending on what end use is undertaken. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each method of plating and coating will help manufacturers to choose the process to best maximize the performance properties and/or aesthetics of their zinc alloy die casting parts. Until new surface treatment alternatives for zinc alloy die castings are available, advances in technology will constantly permit new techniques for plating and coating.