Difference between white and blue zinc plating
White zinc plating and blue zinc plating are two different types of galvanizing and processes. White zinc plating is a conventional way of galvanizing in which zinc is chemically reacted with the surface of the substrate to form a thin layer of zinc-iron alloy. Blue-white zinc, on the other hand, is galvanized with a certain amount of aluminum, which results in a harder, more abrasion-resistant, and more corrosion-resistant coating on the surface.
There are some differences in appearance between blue and white zinc plating. The color of white zinc plating is brighter, while the color of blue and white zinc is more grayish, which is because the color of the product of the addition of aluminum to the galvanized coating is related to the amount of aluminum. In addition, blue-white zinc has somewhat better corrosion resistance than white zinc plating, and has a stronger, more corrosion- and abrasion-resistant surface.
White zinc plating and blue zinc plating also differ in their usage scenarios. White zinc plating is mainly used for internal applications where it is not easily seen and is not susceptible to corrosion (e.g. kitchenware and various parts). Blue-white zinc is used in a wider range of applications and is often used in areas that require higher corrosion resistance, such as body panels, bicycles, highway guardrails, cable bridges, and construction in coastal areas.
In summary, white zinc plating and blue zinc plating are both types of galvanizing, but they have many differences. Blue and white zinc has better corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance and sturdiness compared to white zinc plating and is more widely applicable, but it is also more costly.