Electroplating for Threaded Rods

31 Jul.,2025

The electroplating processes commonly used for full threaded rods (also called all-thread rods or fully threaded screws) depend on the desired properties, such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, appearance, and cost.

 

Author: Marisa

The electroplating processes commonly used for full threaded rods (also called all-thread rods or fully threaded screws) depend on the desired properties, such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, appearance, and cost. Here are the most widely used electroplating methods:

1. Zinc Plating (Most Common)

  • Standard Zinc Plating – Basic corrosion protection, cost-effective.

  • Blue/White Zinc – Clear or slightly bluish finish (chromate passivation).

  • Yellow Zinc (Zinc Chromate) – Better corrosion resistance, yellowish appearance.

  • Black Zinc – Aesthetic black finish with moderate corrosion resistance.

  • RoHS-Compliant Zinc (Trivalent Chromate) – Replaces toxic hexavalent chrome.

Applications: General construction, fasteners, outdoor use.


2. Nickel Plating

  • Bright Nickel – Smooth, shiny finish, good wear resistance.

  • Matte Nickel – Less reflective, used for functional rather than decorative purposes.

  • Nickel-Chromium (Duplex Plating) – Adds extra corrosion/wear resistance.

Applications: High-corrosion environments, decorative hardware, chemical industry.


3. Chrome Plating

  • Decorative Chrome – Thin layer (0.002–0.02 mm), shiny appearance.

  • Hard Chrome – Thicker (0.02–0.1 mm), extreme wear resistance.

Applications: Industrial machinery, hydraulic systems, high-wear applications.


4. Copper Plating (Often as Undercoat)

  • Improves adhesion for subsequent plating (e.g., nickel or chrome).

  • Used in electrical applications for conductivity.


5. Tin Plating (For Special Cases)

  • Good corrosion resistance, solderability, and non-toxicity.

  • Used in food processing, electronics, and marine environments.

Comparison of Common Electroplating for Threaded Rods

Plating Type Corrosion Resistance Wear Resistance Appearance Cost
Zinc (Yellow/Blue) Good (with passivation) Moderate Metallic/Yellow Low
Nickel Excellent High Shiny/Satin Medium-High
Hard Chrome Very Good Very High Bright/Metallic High
Tin Moderate Low Dull Gray Medium