Zinc electroplating is a process where a thin layer of zinc is deposited onto a metal surface using an electric current. This coating provides corrosion protection, improves appearance, and can serve as a base for paints or other coatings.

Zinc is highly effective at protecting steel and other metals because it acts as a “sacrificial coating.” Even if the surface gets scratched, the zinc corrodes first, protecting the underlying metal.

Zinc plating is widely used in manufacturing of anything that will be exposed to the elements such as vehicles, machinery, agricultural equipment, electronics, hardware, and in construction industries for fasteners, brackets, connectors, and precision components. It is also extensively used in the defense industry and other manufacturing such as furniture.

Yakima Machine currently only offers silver/clear (also known as blue zinc) but zinc can be plated with yellow, black, blue, or olive drab chromates.

Check back for new colors to be offered soon!

Typical thickness ranges from 0.0002" to 0.0005" (5–12 microns), depending on customer requirements and standards.

Zinc plating is one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent rust. It’s thinner and more economical than hot-dip galvanizing, but not as decorative as chrome or nickel plating.

Protection time depends on coating thickness, finish type, and environmental exposure. For example, yellow chromated zinc often lasts longer in salt spray tests than clear chromate.

Zinc plating provides an excellent base for paint, powder coating, or other finishes.

Yes, but minimally. Since coatings are thin, zinc plating adds only a few ten-thousandths of an inch. Engineers should account for this in tight-tolerance applications.

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