Electroplating uses an electric current to deposit a thin metal layer onto a part. The point is almost always corrosion protection or surface properties the base metal lacks — and the meaningful spec is the coating thickness and its tested salt-spray life, which is what we quote against.
Common platings
| Plating | Main benefit | Typical salt-spray | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zinc (clear/yellow) | Cheap corrosion protection | ≈ 72 – 200 h | Fasteners, steel parts |
| Zinc-nickel | High corrosion protection | 500 – 1,000+ h | Automotive, demanding parts |
| Nickel | Hardness + bright finish | varies | Decorative, wear |
| Chrome (over nickel) | Wear + appearance | varies | Hardware, tooling |
Specify it properly
- State coating thickness and required salt-spray hours, not just "zinc plated".
- For high-strength steel, require post-plate baking to prevent hydrogen embrittlement.
- Mask threads or allow for thickness so plated fasteners still gauge correctly.
For carbon steel parts plating is the thin-film option; thicker color goes to powder coat, and stainless is passivated instead.