Hydraulic components are exposed to abrasion, corrosion, and numerous environmental factors. To maintain durability and longevity under such extreme conditions, you need to select components made from the appropriate material and plated for the level of protection your application requires.
Platings like zinc, zinc-nickel, and nickel provide an extra layer of protection and can improve material properties such as strength, corrosion resistance, and temperature resistance. Understanding the differences between zinc vs. zinc-nickel plating, as well as the benefits, will help you make the right choice for your application.
In this blog, we provide a simple breakdown of each coating type to help you quickly decide which plating for hydraulic components best meets your requirements.
Zinc Plating for Hydraulic Components
Zinc plating is a thin layer of zinc applied by electroplating or electro-galvanization, creating an additional layer of protection against corrosion and environmental damage. It does not provide the same level of hardness as nickel, but it works well in outdoor applications.
Characteristics of this option:
- The most common choice for hydraulic components
- Lightweight
- Improves mechanical strength
- Withstands harsh conditions
- Less friction and corrosion resistance than nickel plating
- More uneven coating
- Flat, dull gray or silver appearance
Not ideal for:
- Heavy wear
- Equipment where aesthetics is a priority
Zinc-Nickel Plating for Hydraulic Components
Zinc-nickel plating is a co-deposit of zinc and nickel applied using electroplating. It combines the best characteristics of both platings, creating a durable layer of protection capable of withstanding the most extreme operating conditions.
Characteristics of this option:
- An “upgraded” option compared to standard zinc coating
- Superior corrosion resistance
- Exceptional durability and wear resistance
- High thermal resistance
- Averages 4x the hardness of standard zinc plating
- Low maintenance
- Ideal for high-performance applications and highly corrosive environments
- Clean, polished appearance
Nickel Plating for Hydraulic Components
Nickel plating consists of a thin layer of nickel applied using an electroplating or electroless process, sealing the material surface to protect it from corrosion. The coating is tough, versatile, and ideal for applications requiring strong resistance against surface failure.
Characteristics of this option:
- Not as widely used for hydraulic components
- Highly durable and corrosion-resistant
- High temperature resistance
- Withstands high friction
- Ideal for harsh environments
- Thick, uniform coating
- Clean, polished appearance
Considerations: Although nickel is tough and versatile, stainless steel is the more popular alternative for hydraulic components.
How to Choose Between Zinc vs. Zinc-Nickel Plating for Hydraulic Components
We’ve covered the description and benefits of zinc, zinc-nickel, and nickel platings. Let’s discuss how to choose an option for your hydraulic components. Again, everything comes down to the equipment, application, and operating conditions. Choosing the wrong component finish based on those factors can lead to accelerated wear and premature failure.
Here are a few things to consider when selecting hydraulic components for mobile or industrial equipment:
- Operating environment. Consider the level of exposure to heat, humidity, UV rays, or saltwater.
- Exposure to friction or mechanical stress. Will the component remain static or be exposed to vibration, sliding, or rubbing?
- Fluid compatibility. Continuous exposure to hydraulic fluid or oil requires a more durable coating.
- Tolerance. Plating thickness and consistency are more important in applications requiring precise tolerances.
- Aesthetics. This is not always a priority, but it might be important for parts located on the equipment exterior.
If you ever have questions about which plating option is best for your equipment and application, our team is here to help. As a premier hydraulic component supplier, we offer an impressive catalog of genuine, factory-authorized fluid power products and have an in-house technical team to support you with selecting and integrating components into your application.
Give us a call today to learn more about zinc vs. zinc-nickel plating and discuss product options with a fluid power expert!