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Snap buttons with yellow and black dichromate finishes

Metal stamping finishes are crucial as they increase your products’ corrosion resistance, durability, performance, and visual appeal. When it comes to finishing options, your choice depends on the product’s purpose and what protective properties you are looking to achieve. At Valco, we offer various finishing possibilities to align with your budget and environmental requirements.

An Overview of Valco’s Finishing Options

At Valco, we provide the following finishes for metal stamping. Contact our team if you have any questions about specific choices or applications.

Zinc

The process of zinc plating involves applying a thin layer of zinc to the metal part’s surface to act as a protective barrier against corrosion. In addition to being corrosion resistant, zinc plating is a cost-effective option that increases the durability and overall appearance of the part.

This finish is commonly chosen for metal parts used in indoor environments as it is not intended to withstand long-term exposure in outdoor environments.

Zinc with Yellow Dichromate

Finishing a part with zinc and yellow dichromate is a similar process to applying standard zinc. After the zinc is applied to the part, a layer of yellow dichromate is added to the part to further increase corrosion resistance. Since the finished part is brighter in color, this finish is often chosen for automotive or industrial applications where visibility is crucial.

Zinc with Black Dichromate

When you choose zinc and black dichromate as a finish, the application process is nearly the same as adding zinc and yellow dichromate, but instead of adding a layer of yellow dichromate, black dichromate is used. This results in a darker finish that is stronger and more durable than yellow dichromate.

Stainless Steel

In addition to our zinc finishing options, we also offer stainless steel as a finish. Unlike zinc coatings, stainless steel’s corrosion resistance comes from the material itself. Stainless steel is the ideal finish if you need something long term, durable, and intended for outdoor use. While it is more expensive upfront, it is built to last in high-stress environments.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project

While metal finishing in general has its benefits, it’s important to select the right finish for your project. The most important factors to consider when deciding between finishes include:

  • Budget
  • Environment (indoor or outdoor)
  • Anticipated stress and wear on the part
  • Preferred appearance and visibility

Request a Quote on Metal Stampings with Custom Finishes

Unsure which finishing option is right for your project? At Valco/Valley Tool & Die, our team of industry experts can help you find the ideal finish for your metal stampings. Contact us today to get started.