Zinc alloy metal spigots can be used in the bathroom, but there are some key points to pay attention to when choosing and using them. The following is a point by point introduction:
1. Can be used, but not as durable as copper or stainless steel
Usability: Zinc alloy spigots have a lower price and can achieve a good visual effect through electroplating treatment, making them suitable for ordinary household bathrooms.
Relatively short lifespan: Zinc alloys have lower corrosion resistance and strength than copper or stainless steel. Prolonged exposure to humid environments can lead to oxidation, corrosion, or fracture, especially in the internal structural parts.
2. Suitable for budget limited or temporary use
Economical: Zinc alloy raw materials have low costs and are suitable for users with limited budgets or places with low durability requirements such as rental houses and apartments.
Short term suitability: If the expected lifespan of the spigot is short (such as replacement within 3-5 years), zinc alloy is a reasonable choice.
3. Attention should be paid to the quality of surface treatment
Dependent on electroplating protection: Zinc alloy itself is prone to corrosion and is usually protected by surface treatments such as chrome plating and nickel plating. The thickness and uniformity of the electroplating layer directly affect its antioxidant capacity.
Poor quality electroplating is prone to peeling off: If the coating quality is poor, it is easy to peel off in high humidity environments, causing the substrate to be exposed and rapidly corroded.
4. Limited corrosion resistance
Sensitive to moisture: The bathroom environment is humid and has a lot of water vapor. Zinc alloy spigots are prone to problems such as "bubbling," "blackening," or "rust spots," especially at the joints.
Significant impact on water quality: Hard water or tap water with high chlorine content is more likely to corrode the surface of zinc alloys.
5. Relatively weak structural strength
Easy to crack and break: Zinc alloy material has low toughness, and compared to copper or stainless steel spigots, it is prone to structural fatigue or cracking under long-term use or frequent operation.
Not recommended for pressure bearing parts: such as inlet pipe connections or high-frequency rotating positions, it is recommended to avoid using pure zinc alloy materials.
6. More suitable for decorative purposes
The surface looks good but the interior is fragile: The zinc alloy spigot has a good glossiness after surface treatment, making it suitable for use as a decorative and low frequency secondary bathroom or washbasin.
It is not recommended to use it in key locations where the main bathroom is frequently used for a long time.
7. Selection suggestions
Choose high-quality brands: When selecting, choose brands with good reputation and mature production processes to ensure the durability of the plating layer.
Check the material label: Confirm whether it is pure zinc alloy or mixed with other metals. Some products are labeled as "copper core zinc shell", but the actual interior is copper, which has better performance.