Nov 2025
Fastener Platings and Finishes
| Finish |
Color / Appearance |
Corrosion Resistance |
Suitable For |
Key Features & Applications |
| Black Oxide |
Matte Black |
Moderate – Indoor Use |
Most ferrous metals |
Decorative finish offering mild corrosion resistance. Best for indoor applications. |
| Black Zinc |
Glossy Black |
High |
All metal types |
Produces a dark, rich appearance with enhanced rust protection. Optional lacquer finish. |
| Cadmium |
Silver-gray (bright or dull) |
Very High |
Most metals |
Excellent rust resistance and conductivity. Common in aerospace and marine industries. |
| Chrome (Chromium) |
Bright Blue-white |
Excellent |
All metals |
Smooth, reflective finish with outstanding durability. Often used for decorative hardware. |
| Dichromate Dip |
Yellow–Green Iridescent |
Excellent |
Zinc or Cadmium plated parts |
Adds color tone and boosts rust protection. Common post-treatment for zinc finishes. |
| E-Coat (Electrocoat) |
Uniform Black |
Excellent – 168-hour salt spray |
All metals |
Even, corrosion-resistant coating ideal for automotive and outdoor use. |
| Iridite |
Green, Blue, Bronze, or Black |
High |
All metals |
Conversion coating that adds corrosion resistance and decorative color. |
| JS-500 |
Silvery Chrome-like |
Superior – 500-hour salt spray |
All metals |
High-performance coating providing durable protection without altering part dimensions. |
| Nickel |
Bright or Satin Silver |
Very Good |
All metals |
Hard and wear-resistant finish, widely used in decorative and industrial applications. |
| Parkerized |
Dark Gray to Black |
Excellent |
Ferrous metals |
Provides a porous surface that retains oil for enhanced rust protection and lubricity. |
| Phosphating |
Gray, Blue, or Black (matte) |
Excellent |
Steel and iron |
Creates a protective phosphate layer and serves as a good paint base. |
| Passivation |
Natural metallic sheen |
Excellent |
Stainless steels |
Chemical cleaning process that restores the natural corrosion resistance of stainless steel. |
| Zinc Electroplated |
Silver-Gray |
Very Good |
All metals |
Economical, clean finish with reliable rust resistance for general applications. |