Washers are often plated to protect against corrosion and premature wear. During production, a thin layer of material is added to the surface. Known as a surface treatment or plating, this protective outer layer shields the washer. While some washers are plated with zinc or oxide, however, others are plated with cadmium. What are the benefits of cadmium-plated washers exactly?
Corrosion Resistance
Cadmium-plated washers are highly resistant to corrosion. Corrosion is a chemical reaction that involves the oxidation of a given material. When materials like iron or high-carbon steel are exposed to oxygen, they will oxidize. Cadmium plating protects washers from oxidation and corrosion by forming a barrier. Even when used in humid or moist environments, cadmium-plated washers typically won’t corrode.
Versatile
There’s no denying the fact that cadmium-plated washers are versatile. They can protect many different parts from damage. Cadmium-plated washers work like most other washers by distributing the load of a bolt. They extend the bolt’s load across a larger area of the part or parts with which they are used. And thanks to their corrosion-resistant properties, cadmium-plated washers can be used indoors or outdoors.
Reduces Friction
Cadmium-plated washers produce less friction than their non-cadmium-plated counterparts. Washers, of course, are used in conjunction with other types of threaded fasteners, such as bolts and nuts. As these fasteners rub against each other, galling may occur. A washer may fuse with an adjacent nut or bolt, making it difficult to remove. Cadmium, though, is very smooth to the touch. As a result, friction-related problems like galling are less likely to occur with cadmium-plated washers.
Coating Adhesion
A lesser-known benefit of cadmium-plated washers is coating adhesion. Washers are often painted for aesthetic or functional purposes. Depending on the material from which a washer is made, however, the paint may not last. Fortunately, this isn’t a concern with cadmium-plated washers. Cadmium is known for its excellent coating adhesion, meaning paint and other types of coatings will easily stick to it.
Electrical Conductivity
Cadmium-plated washers offer excellent electrical conductivity. Electricity can easily flow through cadmium. With its conductive properties, cadmium is commonly used for washers in grounding connections. They help to ensure a reliable grounding connection to improve the safety of electrical systems.
In Conclusion
Cadmium-plated washers offer many benefits. They are resistant to corrosion, versatile, reduce friction, provide excellent coating adhesion and electrical conductivity.
