A choice of surface treatments at J. LANFRANCO 02 October 2024

Surface treatments, which are essential in industry, mainly provide protection against corrosion, clamping capability and, in some cases, appearance constraints. J. LANFRANCO & Cie offers three main types of surface treatments - electrolytic coating, zinc flake coatings and hot dip galvanising.

These treatments must in no way modify the characteristics of the fasteners, such as mechanical strength, geometry, hydrogen embrittlement, as well as suitability for assembly – even in the presence of a coating. J. LANFRANCO complies strictly with current regulations, in accordance with RoHS and REACH, to guarantee its products conform to environmental and safety standards.

Electrolytic coating NF EN ISO 4042 is used for nuts in Classes 8 – 10. This treatment, which is particularly effective against corrosion, is achieved by coating the surface with a thin layer of electrolytic zinc enriched with nanoparticles. This composition increases corrosion resistance. In addition, a film-former is applied to obtain an improved coefficient of friction of 0.12µ  - 0.18µ. For Class 10 nuts, a systematic degassing process is used, adapted to the quality class, to ensure  hydrogen embrittlement does not happen.

Also available from J. LANFRANCO are zinc flake NF EN ISO 10683 coatings – used for Class 12 nuts. This kind of treatment offers protection against corrosion and is less likely to induce hydrogen embrittlement than electrolytic coatings. This method involves the application of several coatings of zinc particles, forming a durable and effective protective coating. Zinc flakes are particularly adapted to industrial sectors requiring increased resistance and long-term reliability.

Finally, hot dip galvanising NF EN ISO 10684 is a different technique used to protect fasteners against corrosion. The process involves immersing parts in a zinc bath, creating a thick coating of zinc. Galvanising remains a suitable option for specific industrial applications requiring maximum protection against corrosive environments.

By controlling all of these surface treatments, J. LANFRANCO is able to meet the specific requirements of its customers, offering tailor-made solutions and guaranteeing precise coefficients of friction. Whether for Class 8, 10 or 12 nuts, J. LANFRANCO is dedicated to supplying surface treatments that comply with the strictest standards – whilst meeting the technical and regulatory requirements of each industrial application.  

Claire Aldridge Editor t: +44 (0) 1727 743 889

Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.

Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.