Ball Slide Finishes Explained: Zinc Plating, Powder Coating & Their Benefits

When it comes to ball bearing slides, performance and durability are paramount. One of the key factors influencing both is the finish and material used in their construction. At Accuride, we offer a range of protective finishes and alternative materials designed to enhance corrosion resistance, improve appearance, and extend the service life of our slides. In this article, we’ll explore the different finishes and materials available, including zinc plating (chromate finishes), powder coating (electrocoat), and advanced material options like stainless steel and aluminum.

Protective Finishes: Chromate & Electrocoat

Accuride provides six primary protective finishes, all rigorously tested for corrosion resistance using salt-spray testing in accordance with ASTM B117 standards. These finishes fall into two main categories: chromate finishes (a form of zinc plating) and electrocoat (a type of powder coating).

• Clear Chromate (C, CH, CE, CP):** These are variations of zinc plating with different levels of chromate passivation, offering increasing degrees of salt-spray resistance. The “C” finish provides 12 hours of protection, suitable for light-duty indoor applications. Moving up, “CH” offers 96 hours, “CE*” extends to 120 hours, and the premium “CP*” delivers an impressive 250 hours of salt-spray resistance. These finishes are cost-effective and provide a bright, silvery appearance.
• Black Chromate (CB): This finish also utilizes zinc plating but with a black chromate conversion coating. It offers 96 hours of salt-spray resistance and is often chosen for aesthetic reasons where a darker, more discreet look is desired.
• Electrocoat White (EW): This is a type of powder coating applied via an electro-deposition process. The EW finish provides the highest level of corrosion protection among our standard finishes, with an exceptional 500 hours of salt-spray resistance. It’s ideal for demanding environments where maximum durability is required.

Alternative Materials for Enhanced Corrosion Resistance

For applications demanding even greater corrosion resistance, Accuride offers slides constructed from alternative base materials:

• Stainless Steel: We utilize two main grades:
  • 300 Series (Austenitic): Known for excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and toughness. These non-magnetic steels are commonly used in automotive trim, food and beverage equipment, and industrial applications where hygiene and durability are critical.
  • 400 Series (Ferritic): Magnetic steels with high chromium and low carbon content. While highly ductile, they offer slightly less corrosion resistance than the 300 Series. They are frequently used in kitchenware and general industrial equipment.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and naturally corrosion-resistant, aluminum slides are an excellent choice for applications where weight is a concern or where a non-magnetic solution is needed.

Choosing the Right Finish or Material

Selecting the appropriate finish or material depends on your specific application requirements. Consider factors such as the operating environment (indoor, outdoor, humid, chemical exposure), required lifespan, aesthetic preferences, and load requirements. Whether you need a cost-effective zinc-plated option for a cabinet drawer or a high-performance stainless-steel slide for a marine environment, Accuride has a solution designed to meet your needs.

By understanding the different finishes and materials available, you can make an informed decision to ensure optimal performance and longevity for your ball bearing slide applications.