Electrogalvanized

Electrogalvanized refers to steel or iron products that receive a zinc coating through an electroplating process. The coating is typically much thinner and smoother than hot-dip galvanizing, producing a bright, uniform finish that is advantageous for applications requiring precise tolerances, good appearance, and easy paint or soldering.

The process involves chemical cleaning and surface preparation, followed by immersion in a bath containing zinc ions. An electric current deposits zinc onto the treated surface as the cathode, allowing control over coating thickness by adjusting current density and plating time. Often a chromate or conversion coating is applied after plating to improve corrosion resistance, paint adhesion, and solderability.

Coating thickness for electrogalvanized products generally ranges from about 5 to 25 micrometers, with thinner coatings common for high-precision sheet and wire. The resulting surface is smooth and uniform, which enhances paint compatibility and forming accuracy. While zinc continues to provide sacrificial protection to steel, the relatively thin electrogalvanized layer offers less barrier protection in aggressive environments compared to hot-dip galvanized coatings.

Applications for electrogalvanized steel include automotive components, appliances, electrical enclosures, hardware and fasteners, and various sheet and strip products used where appearance, tight tolerances, or post-plating coating compatibility are important.

Compared with hot-dip galvanizing, electrogalvanizing offers a brighter finish, better edge and detail coverage, and finer dimensional control, but typically provides lower overall corrosion resistance in harsh or outdoor environments. It is often chosen when a smooth surface finish and precise coating thickness are prioritized.