The Coating Line That Changed Everything
Our Investment in One of the UK’s Largest Zinc Plating Lines
Behind every enduring business is a moment of reinvention.
For us at Specialist Metallic Coatings, that moment came when we decided to make a bold investment, not just in equipment, but in the future of our company, our industry, and most importantly, our clients.
We are proud to share a major milestone in that journey: the installation of one of the largest zinc plating lines in the UK.
This is not just an addition to our expertise. It’s a strategic leap forward, one that strengthens our position, enhances our effectiveness, and expands the possibilities for every partner we serve.
A Strategic Step, Not a Cosmetic One
In manufacturing, change often comes in response to necessity. But the best transformations are proactive.
Over the years, SMC has built a reputation for reliability, precision, and professionalism. Our clients count on us to deliver the coatings that protect their products and uphold their brand promises, often in demanding environments and under tight timelines.
We saw a growing need for high-volume zinc plating done to exacting modern standards. Clients were looking for faster turnarounds, tighter quality controls, and more sustainable practices. The legacy infrastructure in many parts of the industry simply couldn’t keep up.
So, we decided to lead.
Reintroducing Zinc Plating at SMC, with a Purpose
Zinc plating is not new to us. But the way we’ve reintroduced it is.
With this investment, we’ve brought zinc back into our portfolio at scale, with purpose, and with precision.
Here’s what sets this new line apart:
- Scale that delivers: The plating line is designed for high-volume capacity, enabling us to take on large, complex projects with greater confidence and shorter lead times.
- Process control, redefined: From solution chemistry to automated line, every detail has been engineered for consistency. We are using the latest monitoring equipment to ensure every part meets specification, batch after batch.
- Environmental accountability: Sustainability is no longer a side note; it’s a requirement. Our new system is equipped with advanced filtration and effluent treatment to reduce impact and improve compliance.
- Future-ready flexibility: Whether it’s rack plating, barrel processing, or bespoke component requirements, the line has been built with adaptability in mind.
This isn’t just a return to a capability, it’s a recommitment to excellence, rebuilt from the ground up.
Designed for Today’s Demands, and Tomorrow’s Expectations
Across industries, from automotive and construction to electronics and energy, zinc coatings play a crucial role in corrosion protection and visual finish. But what clients need today is more than protection. They need predictability.
Predictability in turnaround. In finish. In service. In supply chain resilience.
Our new zinc line enables us to offer just that.
It strengthens our ability to deliver:
- Faster turnaround times without compromising quality
- Consistent coating thickness and coverage across varied geometries
- Full traceability and documentation for regulated industries
- Reliable output even in peak demand periods
It’s this kind of end-to-end reliability that modern customers depend on, and that’s exactly what we are positioned to deliver.
An Investment in Our Clients’ Success
We didn’t make this decision lightly. It involved significant time, planning, and commitment, not just financially, but operationally. Teams were retrained. Processes were redefined. Facilities were reconfigured.
But from day one, the goal was clear: to give our clients an advantage.
This zinc line is more than an internal upgrade. It’s a competitive edge for the businesses we work with, enabling them to respond more quickly, stay compliant, reduce reprocessing, and deliver better products to their customers.
For us, that’s what innovation really means. Not technology for its own sake, but improvement that adds tangible value.
What It Means for You
If you’re a manufacturer, supplier, or OEM looking for a partner you can count on, one who understands the demands of your industry and the standards your products must meet, we invite you to explore what’s possible with the new SMC.
We believe this investment has the power to change not just how we operate, but how our clients grow and succeed.
Find out how this investment could benefit your business.
