What Does
Zinc Alloy Mean?
Zinc alloy refers to any metal composed of two or more elements in which at least one is zinc. Zinc is the 24th most abundant naturally occurring element. The resulting metal alloy is uniform in nature and possesses increased physical, chemical, electrical and corrosion resistant properties.
Corrosionpedia Explains Zinc Alloy
Zinc (Zn) is used to make several alloys due to its galvanizing and sacrificial properties. It is historically alloyed with copper to make brass, which contains between 55% zinc and 95% copper.
Another major alloy of zinc is solder, which is formed in combination with lead and tin. Solder possesses a low melting point, therefore making it popular for joining electrical units and pipes.
Zinc is most widely applied for its galvanic properties by dipping or electroplating other metals with zinc's liquid form.
Advantages of zinc alloying:
- Durable
- Cost efficient
- Abundantly available
- Corrosion resistant
- Easily galvanized
- Versatile
- Easily electroplated
Disadvantages of zinc alloying:
- Less aesthetically pleasing
- Lower strength
- Lower ductility