Finish
The surface treatment or coating applied to the washer to enhance its appearance, corrosion resistance, and durability.
1000 Hr Coat
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This finish has been salt spray tested for up to 1000 hours corrosion resistance in a standardized salt spray test. This 1000 hour benchmark is a very high rating in this method.
Black Oxide
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An extremely thin attractive finish with minimal corrosion resistance. This coating reduces galling, improves lubrication of mating parts and reduces glare. This finish looks great when trying to achieve a stylish or "high-tech" look on exposed fastener heads.
Black Zinc
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Provides mild corrosion resistance and a black finish. It is thicker than a Black Oxide finish, so on tight fitting parts be wary of this finish. If a stylish finish is required as well as corrosion protection this is a good option.
Cadmium
Offers good corrosion resistance in a very thin layer. Meaning that part with low tolerances still fit together with this plating. Used mainly in the aerospace and aviation industries. Easily paintable.
Chrome
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This finish improves appearance and provides mild corrosion resistance. It can also increase surface hardness, which improve abrasion resistance, reduces friction, and prevents seizing. This finish is shiny and aesthetically pleasing.
EcoGuard®
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This finish provides some of the highest corrosion resistance. This finish has been tested at a minimum of 1000 hours in the salt spray test for corrosion, eliminates hydrogen embrittlement, and is free of toxic metals. This a great corrosion resistant environmentally friendly finish.
Mechanical Galvanized
This finish, also known as peen plating or impact plating, provides uniform thickness and good corrosion resistance. It is a great on parts subjected to vibration where a normal finish could be compromised and reduce its effectiveness. It also prevents hydrogen embrittlement.
Nickel
This bright decorative finish is used in the automotive industry, on hand tools, in plumbing and lighting fixtures. It has a shiny silver like look. Another benefit of this finish is that it is microscopically smooth decreasing the possibility of bacteria buildup.
Plain
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Nothing has been done to this bare metal surface to improve appearance or corrosion resistance, which is very low if the material is steel. Often the surface has been oiled which improves lubricity. This finish is susceptible to rusting and corrosion in exterior environments. This most basic finish can be used when protection is not an issue or indoors.
Yellow Zinc
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This iridescent electroplated zinc finish, also known as Yellow Zinc Chromate or Dichromate, provides very good corrosion resistance and protection against rust. This finish should not be used in marine or high salt spray environments.
Zinc
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This finish, also know as zinc plating, zinc chromate or dichromate provides good corrosion resistance and is the standard for many hardware fasteners. It is an electroplated zinc layer covered with a chromate post-treatment. The zinc protects the steel from corrosion and the chromate layer protects the zinc from degrading. It is a popular finish because of its protection, value, and ease of coating. Slightly less corrosion resistant than yellow zinc, it is a versatile finish that is best used indoors. This finish should not be used in marine or high salt spray environments.
