Cleaning Zinc Plated Metal Parts (2024)

Q. We would like to verify compatibility of zinc plated metal parts with Alconox.

A. Zinc plated metal parts can be cleaned withAlconox® Powdered Precision Cleaner. Depending on the metal and whether there is any defect in the zinc plate coating, you can get galvanic reactions between the zinc and the underlying metal because you are making a battery. The Alconox solution is simply the electrolyte that conducts electricity. It is always wise to do some test parts to confirm suitability.

We generally recommend avoiding mixed metal baths, but in case where the zinc is plated over another potentially galvanically reactive metal, that obviously cannot be avoided.

In such cases, the oxidation can typically be removed by cleaning with an acidic detergent likeCitranox® Liquid Acid Cleaner and Detergent. If you have older zinc plated parts, you can consider cleaning with Citranox detergent instead. Especially if your residues are inorganic in nature. We are happy to discuss further.

To request these or any Alconox Inc. detergents for free, please complete the questionnaire at Get Sample. For more information about any one of our Alconox Inc. detergents, consult the technical bulletinfor each product. Or click here to access each of our detergent’sSafety Data Sheets.

Do you have a critical cleaning question for the experts at Alconox Inc.? SearchTechNotesto see if it’s been answered before orAsk Alconox.

2 responses to “Cleaning Zinc Plated Metal Parts”

1. SUDESH SALI says:

   July 23, 2020 at 1:50 am

   See Also

   Stripping zinc with vinegarHow to remove zinc sunscreen from your face, body and more | Hello Charlie

   can you tell us the effect of salt spray life after cleaning electroplated components with the Alconox?
   electroplating: Zinc, base metal: Carbon Steel

   • Anonymous says:

     July 27, 2020 at 10:48 am

     As indicated on the blog, fastest responses can be gotten through Ask Alconox or cleaning@alconox.com.

     All of our detergents are designed to be residue free and easily rinsed away. We would expect no change in corrosion. For the safest approach, I’d consider Citranox® Liquid Acid Cleaner and Detergent as indicated in the article.

     For a more thorough answer please use methods above and provide as much detail as possible regarding your application.

     We’d be happy to assist. I hope this is helpful. Thank you for choosing Alconox Inc. for your critical cleaning needs.