Why should I use RoHS conform zinc plated instead of toxic cadmium plated parts?

Question: do you have any data/technical specifications etc that demonstrates that the zinc plated components are an adequate alternative for the original cadmium plating. I realise the dimensions and strength are the same but am interested in the material properties, particularly corrosion resistance in Aluminium assemblies. In order to approve the zinc plated components as an alternative I will need to have some official justification for the material change. Also, I’m guessing from your previous email that all the cad plated fasteners are going to be phased out in the future. Is this the case, and do you know any rough timeline for phase out? I would prefer not to approve another cad plated fastener as a replacement only for that one to become obsolete in the near future. Answer: Cadmium plated parts perform better in corrosion tests. The cadmium also performs as a lubrication when you install parts. Those are the two main advantages. The cadmium plated parts can be still used for aerospace parts. They are however not allowed to be sold in industrial applications. Please realize that Cadmium is a very toxic material. If possible you should transfer to RoHS conform parts Cadmium parts require a minimum PO quantity at this moment of 500 parts.  In the future it might be 2500 pieces. I’m not guessing that they will be phased out as there hasn’t been found an alternative plating that performs as well as the cadmium plated parts.