ELECTROLYTIC TREATMENT INDUSTRIAL ELECTROPLATING:
ELECTROLYTIC SURFACE TREATMENT
Electrolytic surface treatments, also known as industrial electroplating, are a reference solution for corrosion protection and aesthetic enhancement of metal parts.
At Electropoli, we master a wide range of electrolytic plating services adapted to the requirements of each industrial sector, including Mobility, Aeronautics and General Industries.
Operation – Description of the process
Our electrolytic coating process consists of depositing a metal on a part by electrolysis, immersing it in an electrolytic bath through which a direct current flows.
This electrodeposition coating technology improves many functional, technical and decorative properties.
Our rack and barrel plating lines are designed to handle complex-shaped components made of steel, cast iron, and stainless steel.
Range of electrolytic coatings
Electropoli offers a complete portfolio of electrolytic plating and electrochemical treatments, including:
- Zinc electroplating (Zn)
- Zinc-Nickel electroplating (ZnNi)
- Zinc-Iron electroplating (ZnFe)
- Decorative Zinc (Zeltium+)
- General Alloy Plating
Why choose our electrolytic treatment?
Protection against corrosion
Good crimping performance
Formability, weldability
Good electrical and thermal conductivity
Ideal for demanding environments and high-stress industrial applications
Looking for a specific service
Whether you are searching for automotive electroplating, functional coatings for industrial components, or decorative electrolytic finishes, our technical teams can design tailor-made electrolytic treatment solutions adapted to your performance and compliance needs.
Need technical support
Are you developing a new component, validating specifications, or facing a technical challenge?
Our electroplating experts are at your disposal to study your needs and create the right electrolytic treatment solution.
OUR OTHER TREATMENTS
Painting
Aluminum passivation
Multi treatments
Finishing
FAQ
What are the main differences and benefits between alkaline zinc plating, acid zinc plating, and zinc-nickel (Zn Ni) plating for corrosion protection?
Alkaline zinc plating and acid zinc plating offer sacrificial corrosion protection, but with different performance characteristics and uses.
Alkaline zinc plating is valued for its good deposit distribution, particularly on complex geometries. Acid zinc plating allows for higher deposition rates and a good appearance, often sought after for standard parts.
Zinc-nickel (ZnNi) galvanising offers a significantly higher level of protection. It is particularly suitable for harsh environments and demanding applications, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors, thanks to its increased corrosion resistance and stability over time. It can be found in the form of an acid or alkaline bath, depending on the material to be coated and the specifications to be followed (acid ZnNi is generally more suitable for coating cast iron parts).
The choice of process depends on the protection requirements, the exposure environment and the customer’s specifications.
How does your zinc-nickel (Zn Ni) plating serve as a cadmium replacement, and what performance advantages (e.g., salt spray resistance) does it offer, particularly for automotive or harsh environment applications?
Zinc-nickel (ZnNi) plating is now a proven alternative to cadmium, particularly for meeting regulatory and environmental requirements. It offers sacrificial corrosion protection comparable to cadmium, while complying with current regulations. It also has good mechanical strength. It is an attractive solution for coupling parts in contact with aluminium.
ZnNi is characterised by excellent salt spray resistance and stable performance over time, even in harsh environments. These characteristics make it a widely used solution for automotive and industrial applications exposed to aggressive conditions, such as salt, humidity and temperature variations.
The coating system is defined according to functional requirements and customer specifications.
What quality standards (e.g., ASTM B633, ISO 2081, or specific automotive OEM specifications) do your electrolytic plating services adhere to, and how do you ensure consistent plating thickness and adhesion?
Our electrolytic treatments are carried out in accordance with the main international standards and applicable automotive OEM specifications.
Consistent thickness and adhesion are ensured by controlled pre-treatments, continuous monitoring of process parameters and regular checks using standardised tests. All treatments are carried out within a quality framework that guarantees traceability and reproducibility of performance.
Can you handle high-volume electrolytic plating for steel fasteners or cast-iron components using both barrel plating and rack plating methods? What are your typical lead times?
Yes. We process large series of parts, such as steel fasteners or cast-iron components, using both barrel and rack (clip) processes, depending on the geometry and functional requirements.
Lead times depend on volumes and production planning, but for standard parts, lead times are generally a few working days. Specific lead times can be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What measures do you take to prevent hydrogen embrittlement in high-strength steel parts during your electrolytic zinc plating processes, and do you offer baking/de-embrittlement services?
Preventing hydrogen embrittlement is an integral part of our processes for high-strength steels. It is based on appropriate pre-treatments, controlled deposition parameters and compliance with applicable standards.
When required by specifications, we offer stress relief (pre-treatment) and dehydrogenation (baking) operations after galvanising, carried out according to controlled cycles. These measures ensure the mechanical performance of the treated parts, in accordance with customer and industry requirements.
