What is the difference between galvanizing and yellow zinc plating?

1. Coating composition

Galvanizing, as the name suggests, is the coating of a metal surface with a layer of zinc. Depending on the process, the main methods of galvanizing commonly used are hot-dip galvanizing and electro-galvanizing. Hot-dip galvanizing is the process of immersing the metal in a molten zinc solution, so that the zinc layer forms an alloy layer and a pure zinc layer with the metal substrate. Electro-galvanizing is the use of the principle of electrolysis, so that the zinc ions on the surface of the metal to form a zinc layer of reductive deposition, which is designed to protect the metal substrate from the erosion of the external environment.

Yellow zinc platingis essentially an extension of the galvanizing process. After galvanizing is completed, Passivation takes place, whereby a passivation solution containing chromates and other components is added to the surface of the zinc layer, and a yellow passivation film is formed as a result of a chemical reaction. This passivation film gives yellow zinc-plated parts unique properties that are different from those of normal galvanized parts, and is the most significant difference between the two in terms of composition.

2. Appearance

Galvanized parts typically have a silvery-white metallic luster, with a smooth and flat surface and a relatively simple and pure color. This simple silvery-white appearance is quite popular in situations where the appearance requirements are relatively simple and the focus is on metallic texture.

Yellow zinc-plated parts, due to the presence of a passivation film on their surfaces, exhibit a color range from light yellow to golden yellow, with a certain degree of luster. Compared to zinc-plated parts, yellow zinc-plated parts have a more eye-catching and unique appearance. In scenarios where there are special aesthetic requirements, such as distinguishing part functions through color or enhancing visual effects, yellow zinc-plated parts offer significant advantages.

3. Decorative galvanizing

The silver-white coatinghas a certain degree of luster, giving it a clean and elegant appearance. It is suitable for applications where decorative requirements are not high, such as Industrial Equipment and building structures. Yellow zinc plating: The yellow coating has a unique visual effect, giving a sense of elegance and sophistication. It offers good decorative properties and is commonly used in products with high aesthetic requirements, such as home goods and decorative items.

The color of yellow zinc plating can be adjusted through passivation processes to achieve varying shades, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences; zinc plating can be enhanced with post-processing such as polishing to increase luster, thereby improving decorative appeal while maintaining practical functionality.

4. Application Areas Galvanizing

Galvanizingwidely used in industries such as construction, automotive, machinery manufacturing, electronics, and chemicals, including galvanized Steel sheets, galvanized steel pipes, and galvanized iron wire. It is primarily used to prevent metal rusting and corrosion, thereby extending the service life of metal products.

Yellow zinc plating: Primarily used in industries such as mechanical processing, automotive, and home appliances, including automotive components and appliance housings. In addition to corrosion resistance and wear resistance, it also offers good decorative properties, enhancing the aesthetic quality of the product.