100 Years of Business Heritage

What is Zinc Flake Coating?

Excellence. Superior. Quality.

Zinc Flake Coating is an innovative, non-electrolytic protective coating system that offers unparalleled corrosion resistance while eliminating the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, making it a preferred solution for high-strength steel components. This advanced process involves the application of ultra-thin layers of zinc and aluminum flakes that bond together to create a robust sacrificial barrier, effectively shielding components from rust and environmental degradation.

One of its standout features is its exceptional corrosion protection, as it withstands over 1,000 hours of salt spray testing, ensuring longevity even in the harshest conditions. Unlike electroplating methods, which can introduce hydrogen embrittlement and compromise structural integrity, Zinc Flake Coating provides a safe, reliable alternative that preserves the strength of critical components.

Additionally, its low-friction properties reduce wear and enhance performance in high-stress applications, while its high-temperature resistance ensures stability in extreme operating environments. The coating is applied in an ultra-thin, uniform layer, maintaining precise tolerances without excessive buildup, making it ideal for precision-engineered parts.

Beyond performance benefits, Zinc Flake Coating is also an environmentally responsible choice, as it is free from hazardous chromium(VI), aligning with global environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives. Due to its superior protective qualities and compliance with industry standards, this coating is widely used in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, rail, construction, and offshore industries, where durability and reliability are mission-critical. By delivering long-lasting protection, enhanced wear resistance, and eco-friendly benefits, Zinc Flake Coating stands out as a cutting-edge solution for industries that demand the highest levels of performance and safety.

Zinc Flake Coating Process Benefits

At Specialist Metallic Coatings (SMC), our Zinc Flake Coating solutions provide superior corrosion protection, high durability, and hydrogen embrittlement-free performance for critical metal components.

Exceptional Corrosion Resistance

Zinc Flake Coating forms a sacrificial barrier against rust and oxidation, offering protection that exceeds 1,000+ hours of salt spray testing.

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No Risk of Hydrogen Embrittlement

Unlike electroplating, this non-electrolytic process eliminates hydrogen embrittlement, making it ideal for high-strength steels and safety-critical components.

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Thin, Uniform Coating

Delivers precise, even coverage without clogging threads or affecting tolerances, ensuring optimal performance for fasteners and precision parts.

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Enhanced Wear & Chemical Resistance

With low-friction properties, this coating reduces mechanical wear and withstands exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and harsh environments.

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Versatile & Compatible with Additional Coatings

Can be combined with topcoats, lubricants, and sealants for enhanced performance, making it a preferred choice for automotive, aerospace, rail, and offshore industries.

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Durable.

Protective. Unmatched.

Durable.

Durable.

Beyond Zinc Flake Coatings

Comprehensive Metal Protection Solutions

In addition to Zinc Flake Coatings, we offer a range of specialist metal coatings to enhance durability and corrosion resistance. Our Sherardizing process ensures uniform protection for complex components, while Zinc Phosphate improves paint adhesion and wear resistance. Passivation removes contaminants and prevents oxidation, extending component lifespan. For high-volume small parts, Barrel Zinc Plating provides cost-effective, long-term protection. Duplex Coatings combine multiple layers for superior chemical resistance and durability in extreme environments. At SMC Wolverhampton, we deliver industry-leading solutions to ensure the strength and reliability of your critical components.

Applications of Zinc Flake Coatings

Our Zinc Flake Coatings provide high-performance corrosion protection and durability across industries that demand superior surface protection, wear resistance, and long-term reliability:

Automotive

Ideal for fasteners, brake components, and chassis parts, offering exceptional corrosion resistance without hydrogen embrittlement.

Rail & Infrastructure

Enhances the durability of couplings, bolts, and fittings exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

Defence & Aerospace

Protects high-strength steel components against corrosion and wear while maintaining structural integrity.

Oil & Gas

Ensures long-lasting protection for fasteners, valves, and offshore equipment in extreme environments.

Construction & Engineering

Extends the service life of metal fixings, fasteners, and support structures used in large-scale projects.

Renewable Energy

Applied to wind turbine fasteners, solar panel mounts, and offshore structures to withstand salt spray and harsh weather conditions.

Marine & Offshore

Protects shipbuilding components, rig fittings, and marine hardware from corrosion in coastal and deep-sea environments.

Customer Approvals

We provided a high-performance coating solution for a leading blue-chip company, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance. Our quality assurance ensured superior results, strengthening the client’s trust and securing ongoing collaboration.

“Specialist Metallic Coatings delivered exceptional results, reducing maintenance costs and improving durability. Their expertise makes them a trusted partner.”

Enhanced Protection & Additional Treatments

Beyond standard Zinc Flake Coatings, we offer specialised treatments to further enhance corrosion resistance, surface durability, and friction control. These include advanced sealants, lubricants, paints, and organic (duplex) coatings, delivering up to 1,000+ hours of salt spray resistance.

Key Properties

  • › Superior Corrosion Protection
  • › Extended Component Lifespan
  • › Hydrogen Embrittlement-Free
  • › Thin Yet Durable Coating

Other Properties

  • › Temperature & Chemical Resistance
  • › Improved Surface Friction Control
  • › Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

Next Steps...

Protect Your Components with Industry-Leading Zinc Flake Coatings

Ensure maximum corrosion resistance, durability, and performance with our advanced Zinc Flake Coating solutions. Protect your components from harsh environments while maintaining precision and reliability.

Innovative. Defined.

Innovative. Defined.

Working around the clock,
around the world,
in all industries.

As industry leaders, Specialist Metallic Coatings provide professional, innovative, and unbiased solutions when it comes to metal coating systems. See below our buiness statisitics.

106,043

Components made in 24 hours

2,043

Partnerships around the world

100

Years of business & experience