| Metal |
Attributes |
Typical Applications |
Processes |
Finishes** |
| Aluminum |
Lightweight
Rustproof
Expensive |
Shoe eyelets & washers
Can do a wide range of bright colors at a reasonable cost (anodizing) |
Stamping
Forging
Casting
Wire forming |
Anodizing - any color
E-Coating (electrophoresis)
Electrostatic Powder Coating
Enamel & epoxy
Lacquering
Painting (barrel & spray)
Plastic coating |
| Brass |
Washable
Rustproof |
Most common metal used for snap fasteners, rivets, rings and grommets
since these are frequently washed
Good choice for leather (isn't affected by the corrosive chemicals)
Brass forging for special applications |
Stamping
Forging
Casting
Wire forming |
E-Coating (electrophoresis)
Electroplating - any finish
Electrostatic Powder Coating
Enamel & epoxy
Galvanic plating
Lacquering
Painting (barrel & spray) - any color
Plastic coating
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition)
|
Stainless
Steel |
Rust resistant
Expensive |
Outdoor
Medical/electrical
Marine
Snap fasteners, rivets, rings and grommets |
Stamping
Wire forming |
E-Coating (electrophoresis)
Electrostatic Powder Coating
Enamel & epoxy
Lacquering
Painting (barrel & spray)
Plastic coating |
| Steel |
Can rust
Lowest cost
Most easily
bent |
Usually used on articles that aren't washed or exposed to the elements
Finishes can help reduce rust.
Best choice for items that need to be bent (for legs or clamps, for
example). |
Stamping
Wire forming |
E-Coating (electrophoresis)
Electroplating
Electrostatic Powder Coating
Enamel & epoxy
Lacquering
Painting (barrel & spray)
Plastic coating
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) |
| Zinc |
Melts at a low
temperature |
Casting of rings, buckles, sliders, locks, and decorative ornaments |
Die Casting
|
E-Coating (electrophoresis)
Electroplating
Electrostatic Powder Coating
Enamel & epoxy
Galvanic plating
Lacquering
Painting (barrel & spray)
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) |
