Plated Chains
When equipment operates in environments where moisture, chemicals, or spillages can cause corrosion, plated chains provide a reliable solution. Both nickel-plated and zinc-plated chains are engineered to extend service life and maintain performance under corrosive conditions, while offering cost-effective protection compared to stainless steel.
Nickel-Plated Chains
Nickel-plated chains deliver excellent resistance to corrosion and are ideal for mildly corrosive environments where appearance and performance both matter. The nickel plating forms a durable barrier layer, helping to reduce rust and wear without compromising working strength.
Key Features:
- Suitable for applications such as bottling, food processing, and light washdown areas.
- Provides 400+ hours of salt spray protection (DIN 50021 standards).
- Chain components undergo the same processes (shot-peened, pre-loaded) as our standard series chains.
- Electroless nickel plating is applied before assembly for uniform protection.
- Maximum allowable load is about 85% of our standard series chains.
Nickel-plated chains are best where equipment faces intermittent exposure to moisture or corrosive agents but still requires high strength and long wear life.
Zinc-Plated Chains
Zinc-plated chains are designed for outdoor or humid environments where sacrificial corrosion protection is essential. Zinc acts as a protective layer, corroding first to safeguard the underlying steel, ensuring the chain continues to perform even under challenging conditions.
Key Features:
- Effective sacrificial protection against rust.
- Cost-effective solution for environments with consistent moisture exposure.
- Available with different passivation finishes (clear, yellow, or blue) for added protection.
- Retains good tensile strength and fatigue resistance.
Zinc-plated chains are the practical choice for general industry, agriculture, construction, and outdoor equipment, where affordability and corrosion resistance must be balanced.
Choosing Between Nickel and Zinc Plating
- Nickel-plated → best for indoor, mildly corrosive environments (e.g., beverage, packaging, and light washdowns).
- Zinc-plated → best for outdoor or humid conditions where sacrificial protection offers longer service life.
Both options provide excellent solutions where stainless steel is not suitable, ensuring reliable chain performance with added corrosion resistance.
