Lynx Dacroclad Coated Chain
Lynx Dacroclad chain uses a proprietary zinc-aluminum flake coating that offers 5-10× better corrosion resistance than traditional zinc plating, at significantly lower cost than stainless steel. The coating bonds chemically to the steel substrate and self-heals minor scratches through galvanic protection. Common in agricultural equipment, outdoor industrial applications, and marine-adjacent environments where stainless is cost-prohibitive but standard plating is inadequate.
Key Features
- Zinc-aluminum flake coating bonded chemically to steel
- 5-10× longer corrosion resistance than standard zinc plating
- Self-healing through galvanic protection
- Full carbon-steel tensile strength retained
- Significantly lower cost than stainless steel
- Salt spray rated 1,000+ hours per ASTM B117
When To Choose This Material
- Outdoor agricultural equipment (harvesters, sprayers, balers)
- Industrial conveyors in humid or wet environments
- Marine-adjacent applications (boatyards, ports, not direct immersion)
- Cost-sensitive applications where stainless is excessive
- Replacement for failed zinc-plated chain in corrosive environments
When To Consider Alternatives
- Direct food contact (not FDA compliant)
- Direct continuous saltwater immersion (use stainless)
- Strong acid or alkaline chemical exposure
- High-temperature operation (>500°F degrades coating)
🔄 Compare Materials
Not sure which material fits your application? Compare the alternatives:
→ Stainless Steel Chain→ Nickel Plated Chain→ Dacroclad Coated ChainFrequently Asked Questions
What does "Dacroclad" actually mean?
Dacroclad (also marketed as Dacromet, Geomet, and similar names) is a coating process developed by NOF Metal Coatings that combines zinc flakes, aluminum flakes, and inorganic binders. The flakes overlap in multiple layers to create a barrier coating, with the zinc providing galvanic protection at exposed edges. The aluminum content extends life beyond pure zinc coatings.
How does Dacroclad compare to galvanizing?
Hot-dip galvanizing produces a thicker zinc coating (1.5-3 mils) but applies a relatively rough surface that catches debris and accelerates wear in mechanical applications. Dacroclad coating is thinner (0.4-0.8 mils) but smoother, better suited for moving parts like chain. Galvanizing wins for static outdoor steel structures; Dacroclad wins for mechanical components with sliding contact.
Does Dacroclad wear off the chain during use?
Yes, slowly. Coating wears at contact points (roller-to-bushing, pin-to-bushing surfaces), but typically much slower than zinc plating. Service life in moderate conditions is 3-5× longer than zinc plated chain. Visible wear shows as bright steel appearing through the gray coating; replace chain when significant base metal is exposed.
Can Dacroclad chain be welded for attachments?
Heating during welding destroys the coating in the heat-affected zone, exposing bare steel that will corrode rapidly. If you need to weld attachments to coated chain, expect to lose corrosion protection at the weld and surrounding area. For attachment-required applications, choose factory-attached chain rather than field-welded, or use uncoated chain that's coated after welding.
