Spezialverzinkungsverfahren

Spezialverzinkung refers to zinc-based coating technologies applied to steel to improve corrosion protection and surface characteristics. It encompasses standard hot-dip galvanizing as well as specialized variants and post-treatment options designed for specific environments or functional requirements. The term is used in German-speaking industries for coatings that go beyond conventional zinc layers in thickness, composition, or performance.

Common approaches include hot-dip galvanizing (including continuous galvanizing), electrogalvanizing (zinc plating) for precise, thin coatings, and alloy coatings such as zinc-nickel (Zn-Ni) and zinc-cobalt, which offer superior corrosion resistance. Zinc-aluminium-magnesium alloys (Zn-Al-Mg, sometimes branded as ZAM or similar) provide enhanced long-term protection, especially in coastal or industrial atmospheres. Post-treatments like galvannealing (heat treatment of zinc-coated steel to form a Zn-Fe alloy) and chromate or phosphate passivation improve paint adhesion and further corrosion resistance. Duplex systems combine a galvanized layer with an organic coating for additional protection.

Applications include automotive components, construction profiles, electrical enclosures, and machinery subjected to harsh environments. The choice of Spezialverzinkung depends on required service life, environmental exposure, forming and painting processes, and cost. Industry standards such as ISO 1461 for hot-dip galvanizing and EN 10346 for continuous coating govern quality and performance.