Why is the base powder-coated and the T-clamp assembly zinc-plated rather than just painting them?
Powder-coating and zinc-plating are more durable than painting. Powder-coating becomes “part of” the steel instead of a thin layer like paint. The T-clamp assembly cannot be powder-coated as this would interfere with the smooth operation of the threads. The clamp is plated with zinc black, and the T-handle with zinc yellow.
