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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Comparing the advantages of different finishes

2004

Hello everyone!

I am a Materials engineer and recently I was purposed an opportunity to build up a plating company. For this purpose I would like you to inform me of the industrial applications, advantages and disadvantages of using:

- electrodeposited zinc
- electrodeposited chromium
- anodizing
- electroless nickel

I know most of the differences between them but the problem is in understanding the potential customers for these techniques.

Best regards,

Eng Almendra Vilaça
plating - Braga, MInho, Portugal

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Your question isn't much different than asking what are the applications, advantages and disadvantages of paper, plastic, glass, and steel. In other words its terribly broad, and no matter how we try to reply we will inevitably leave out 90 percent of the answer you are looking for. Zinc is used for inexpensive corrosion resistance, chromium for wear resistance or (on top of nickel) as a highly decorative coating. Anodizing applies to aluminum rather than steel and is both protective and decorative. EN has a host of applications in wear resistance and electronics.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2004