Zinc Plating Bracket – Caster Wheel Surface Processing
What is Zinc Plated Processing?
Galvanizing refers to a surface treatment technology that coats the surface of metal, alloy, or other materials with a layer of zinc for aesthetics and rust prevention. The main method used is hot dip galvanizing.
Zinc is easily soluble in acid and alkali, so it is called an amphoteric metal. Zinc changes little in dry air. In humid air, a dense basic zinc carbonate film will form on the zinc surface. In atmospheres containing sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and marine atmospheres, zinc has poor corrosion resistance. Especially in atmospheres with high temperature, high humidity, and organic acids, the zinc coating is easily corroded. The standard electrode potential of zinc is -0.76V. For steel substrates, zinc coating is an anodic coating. It is mainly used to prevent corrosion of steel. Its protective performance is closely related to the thickness of the coating. After the zinc coating is passivated, dyed, or coated with a gloss protectant, its protective and decorative properties can be significantly improved.
The above is the interpretation of galvanizing in some encyclopedias, but for casters, it has a deeper meaning.
- Background of Surface Treatment
- The galvanization of caster surfaces is a crucial step in ensuring the long-term use and corrosion resistance of these components. Galvanization involves the formation of a protective layer of zinc on the caster’s surface, leveraging the excellent electrochemical properties of zinc to create a robust oxide layer that shields the metal from environmental factors.
- Galvanization Process
- Typically, the caster undergoes initial stages of cleaning and degreasing to eliminate impurities on its surface. Subsequently, the caster is immersed in a galvanizing bath containing zinc salts. Through electrochemical reactions, a uniform layer of zinc is deposited on the caster’s surface. This process, known as electroplating, allows for the adjustment of the thickness of the galvanized layer by controlling current density and processing time.
- Customization of Galvanized Color and Thickness
- According to diverse customer requirements, the color and thickness of the galvanized layer on caster surfaces can be customized. Some customers may desire a specific appearance for their casters, while others prioritize corrosion resistance. Colors are typically achieved by incorporating specific organic dyes or coatings, while thickness is adjusted by controlling electroplating time and conditions.
- Relationship Between Galvanized Thickness and Salt Spray Testing
- The thickness of the galvanized layer directly impacts the caster’s corrosion resistance in salt spray environments. Generally, a thicker galvanized layer enhances the caster’s resistance to corrosion in salt spray conditions. Manufacturers often conduct salt spray tests according to industry standards, and the test duration depends on the thickness of the galvanized layer. This testing method simulates harsh marine or high-humidity environments, helping assess the product’s lifespan under these conditions.
- Conclusion
- Galvanized surface treatment for casters is a common and effective corrosion prevention method, providing a long life and reliable surface protection. By adjusting the color and thickness of galvanization based on customer needs, manufacturers can tailor casters to meet various application requirements and aesthetic preferences. Rigorous quality control and salt spray testing ensure that the products maintain stable performance even in adverse environmental conditions.
Next, we will watch a short video to understand the process of caster plating.
Now, we know that plating a bracket follows the following steps
Selecting an electroplating supplier for our caster fork assembly involved a meticulous evaluation process. Our ultimate choice was guided by the pursuit of cutting-edge technology, leading us to opt for Xiaolan, situated in China’s hardware center, renowned for its state-of-the-art equipment.
Distinguishing between new electroplating equipment and traditional counterparts reveals substantial advancements:
- Oil Removal Process:
- Traditional Equipment: Typically involves a single process for oil removal.
- New Equipment: Incorporates a three-step process to meticulously eliminate oil residues, ensuring thorough cleansing.
- Acid Cleaning:
- Traditional Equipment: Typically utilizes a single-step acid cleaning process.
- New Equipment: Implements a two-step acid cleaning procedure, enhancing the effectiveness of the cleaning process.
- Chemical Polishing:
- Traditional Equipment: Lacks a chemical polishing component.
- New Equipment: Introduces chemical polishing, adding a layer of sophistication to the process and resulting in a caster fork surface that gleams with enhanced brilliance.
- Electroplating Time:
- Traditional Equipment: Generally completes electroplating within an hour using a single anode.
- New Equipment: Extends the electroplating time to over 1.5 hours, utilizing a double anode configuration to ensure a superior surface finish, thereby enhancing the ability to withstand the salt spray test.
- Chemical Usage:
- Traditional Equipment: Typically relies on conventional chemicals.
- New Equipment: Embraces environmentally friendly chemicals, aligning with our commitment to environmental sustainability and ensuring that our work is eco-friendly.
This strategic decision to engage with Xiaolan reflects our commitment to quality and innovation in the electroplating process for our caster fork assembly. By leveraging advanced technology and environmentally friendly practices, we aim to deliver products that not only meet but exceed industry standards.
Hot Selling Zinc Plating Caster Wheel
Differences Between Regular Zinc Plating and Color Zinc Plating
1. Basic Process:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Regular zinc plating, also known as clear or blue zinc plating, involves immersing steel or iron components in a zinc electroplating bath to form a protective layer of zinc on the surface.
- Color Zinc Plating: Color zinc plating is a variation of zinc plating that involves depositing a layer of zinc with added colorants, providing a variety of hues beyond the traditional silver appearance.
2. Appearance:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Results in a classic silver-gray finish, commonly associated with standard zinc plating. This is the default appearance unless specified otherwise.
- Color Zinc Plating: Offers a range of color options, including gold, black, green, blue, and others, allowing for customization based on aesthetic preferences or functional requirements.
3. Alloy Composition:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Typically consists of a pure zinc coating, offering corrosion resistance but without additional alloying elements.
- Color Zinc Plating: This may include alloying elements in the zinc bath to achieve the desired color, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also potentially enhancing certain properties like corrosion resistance.
4. Applications:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Widely used for basic corrosion protection in various industries, including automotive, construction, and hardware.
- Color Zinc Plating: Commonly employed in situations where both corrosion resistance and a specific color aesthetic are required. This makes it suitable for decorative applications, consumer electronics, and customized products.
5. Corrosion Resistance:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Provides effective corrosion resistance by forming a sacrificial zinc layer that corrodes before the underlying metal substrate.
- Color Zinc Plating: Offers corrosion resistance comparable to regular zinc plating, and the additional colorants do not compromise the protective properties of the zinc layer.
6. Environmental Considerations:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Generally utilizes conventional zinc plating processes, which may involve the use of traditional chemicals.
- Color Zinc Plating: Depending on the specific coloration process, there may be variations in the chemicals used, but efforts are often made to employ environmentally friendly options.
7. Customization:
- Regular Zinc Plating: Limited to the standard silver appearance.
- Color Zinc Plating: Provides a high level of customization, allowing manufacturers and designers to choose specific colors that align with product branding or aesthetic preferences.
In summary, while regular zinc plating is the conventional choice for corrosion protection, color zinc plating offers a broader range of appearances, making it ideal for applications where both functionality and visual appeal are crucial. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the intended use.
Qianyue Caster Zinc Plating Processing Picture
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