Zinc-Iron and Zinc-Cobalt
Zinc-iron (about 0.3 - 1% iron) and zinc-cobalt (about 0.5 - 1% cobalt) are zinc alloy plates that improve on plain zinc. Zinc-nickel has largely overtaken both in automotive work.
Zinc alloys compared
| Alloy | Alloying content | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc-iron | About 0.3 - 1% Fe | Good black finish; modest improvement over zinc |
| Zinc-cobalt | About 0.5 - 1% Co | Improved corrosion; less common today |
| Zinc-nickel | About 12 - 16% Ni | Highest corrosion life of the three |
These tables carry the same figures as the printed sheet below.
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Zinc-iron and zinc-cobalt alloy electroplates
What it is
FIELD IDENTIFICATION
Zinc-iron (about 0.3 - 1% iron) and zinc-cobalt (about 0.5 - 1% cobalt) are zinc alloy plates that
improve on plain zinc. Zinc-nickel has largely overtaken both in automotive work.
ZN-FE
ZN-CO
Zinc alloy electroplates
Zinc alloys compared
Alloy
Alloying content
Notes
Zinc-iron
About 0.3 - 1% Fe
Good black finish; modest improvement over zinc
Zinc-cobalt
About 0.5 - 1% Co
Improved corrosion; less common today
Zinc-nickel
About 12 - 16% Ni
Highest corrosion life of the three
Key points
Electroplating can load high-hardness steel with hydrogen. Parts at roughly HRC 39 and above (Grade 8, 10.9, 12.9, A574) need a qualified process and a
prompt embrittlement-relief bake, or a non-electrolytic coating instead.
Governing standards: ISO 19598; supplier / OEM specifications. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always take
precedence over this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-AE8101 · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/plating-coatings-finishes/zinc-iron-and-zinc-cobalt · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.

























