13 Sep How Coating Metal Prevents Corrosion
Reliable, long-lasting metal parts are integral to a wide range of industries, from aerospace and automotive to military and defense. However, certain metals are highly susceptible to corrosion, causing them to deteriorate over time. Corrosion can lead to structural failures, safety hazards, and costly repairs. This is where metal finishing comes in.
Metal finishing means applying a protective layer to the surfaces of metal components, such as aerospace fasteners or electrical contacts. There are several types of corrosion-resistant metal finishing techniques, including plating, coating, passivation, and anodizing. Each type offers its own unique benefits. So, let’s find out how coating metal can prevent corrosion.
How Does Coating Metal Prevent Corrosion?
1. Barrier Protection
Metal finishes create a physical barrier that blocks corrosive elements such as moisture and oxygen from reaching the underlying metal. This barrier is especially important in situations where metal components are frequently exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or extreme weather conditions.
2. Sacrificial Coating
Some types of metal finishes (such as cadmium plating) act as a sacrificial layer. When exposed to corrosive elements, the coating reacts first, sacrificing itself to preserve the integrity of the metal underneath. This method is commonly used in galvanized steel parts to prevent rust.
3. Chemical Resistance
Metal finishes can also improve chemical resistance, protecting metal parts from acidic or alkaline environments that may otherwise accelerate corrosion. This is particularly important in industries where metals are exposed to harsh chemicals, such as the mining, oil and gas, and automotive industries.
4. Enhanced Durability
Metal finishing not only protects against corrosion, but also enhances the overall durability of metal parts. By providing resistance to wear, abrasion, and impact, metal finishes ensure that the components remain functional and exceed their lifespan.
5. Natural Corrosion Resistance
Some metal finishes (like stainless steel passivation) enhance natural corrosion resistance by creating a thin, inert oxide layer on the surface. Because this layer can self-heal from minor damage, it provides long-term protection.
The Four Best Metal Coatings to Prevent Corrosion
Selecting the right coating is a critical part of the manufacturing process. To choose the best coating, you’ll need to consider the intended use of the component, the environment it will be exposed to, and how long the protective layer needs to last.
The most effective coatings for corrosion protection are anodizing, electroless nickel plating, hard chrome plating, and phosphate coating. Let’s take a look at how they compare.
1. Anodizing
This electrochemical process enhances the natural oxide layer on materials such as aluminum, making them more resistant to corrosion. Anodizing creates a thicker oxide layer through a process that involves immersing the substrate in an electrolyte solution and charging it with an electric current.
2. Electroless Nickel Plating
This type of plating creates a uniform, corrosion-resistant coating by means of a chemical reaction. It deposits a layer of nickel-phosphorus alloy that is highly effective in protecting against corrosion, wear, and chemical exposure.
3. Hard Chrome
Also known as industrial chrome, hard chrome plating is an electroplating process that deposits a layer of chromium onto a metal surface. It provides excellent resistance to corrosion, wear, and abrasion while also improving hardness. Hard chrome is often used to protect automotive components, hydraulic cylinders, and industrial machinery.
4. Manganese Phosphate
This type of phosphate coating provides great corrosion resistance and wear protection. The process involves immersing the metal in a solution containing manganese, phosphate, and other chemicals that react with metal to form a protective layer on its surface.
Metal Finishing Provider in Phoenix
Metal finishing is a great way to prevent corrosion. If you want your metal components to remain durable and functional in challenging conditions, the right finish can make all the difference. At CRC Surface Technologies, we understand the importance of corrosion and wear protection. If you need professional metal finishing services, we have the high-level expertise and the reliable quality you’re looking for.
Email our Estimator Team at rfq@chemresearchco.com to request a quote, or give us a call at 602-253-4175 to learn more.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/13/2024). Photo by michael schaffler on Unsplash