Tin-Zinc Plating
While tin-zinc plating has been around since the 1940’s, the demand for tin-zinc coating has been on the rise over the past thirty years as people discover its engineering properties and the superior corrosion resistance it provides in a variety of environments and applications.
Typically, tin-zinc alloys contain 70-90% Tin, with the balance being Zinc. While tin-zinc alloy plating has typically been related to baths of cyanide-based electrolytes, new technologies offer baths that are neutral and cyanide free. According to Product Finishing Magazine, the corrosion resistance of tin-zinc plating typically equals or exceeds that of zinc-nickel alloys.
Tin-Zinc Plating: Extreme Corrosion Resistance
Tin-zinc plating is the best alternative to cadmium plating. Tin-zinc offers extreme corrosion resistance because the Tin acts as a barrier coating to protect the base metal, while the Zinc works galvanically to further delay corrosion.
Tin-Zinc Plating: Excellent Solderability
Additionally, tin-zinc platings offer great solderability due to the fact that most solders are primarily tin. When tin-zinc parts are soldered, the result is a superior metallurgical bond. The finish is useful for fasteners that will be used for electrical grounding or when good electrical conductivity is required.
Other Advantages of Tin-Zinc Plating
The Tin Research Institute reports that tin-zinc alloys provide the following mechanical and physical advantages:
- Excellent solderability even after long periods of time in storage
- High corrosion resistance
- Superior ductility that allows for secondary bending and crimping while maintaining high corrosion resistance
- Excellent lubricity
- Demonstrates outstanding resistance to sulfur enhanced atmospheres
- High resistance to salt and acidic environments
To learn more about advantages of Tin-Zinc and how to select the best plating service provider, download our newest free resource,
How to Avoid Plating Services That Will Help You Lose Customers
