Electroplating why is it used

Part placement: The distance the dissolved metal needs to travel will affect how effectively the substrate is plated, so the placement of the anode relative to the cathode is important. Electrical current: Both the voltage level and the application time of the electrical current plays a role in the efficacy of the electroplating process.

Some of the most commonly used metals for electroplating include: Copper: Copper is often used for its conductivity and heat resistance. It is also commonly used to improve adhesion between layers of material. Zinc: Zinc is highly corrosion-resistant. Often, zinc is alloyed with other metals to enhance this property. For example, when alloyed with nickel, zinc is particularly resistant to atmospheric corrosion. Tin: This matte, bright metal is highly solderable and corrosion resistant as well as environmentally friendly.

It is also inexpensive compared to other metals. Nickel: Nickel offers excellent wear resistance, which can be improved through heat treatment.

Its alloys are also very valuable, offering elemental resistance, hardness and conductivity. Electroless nickel plating is also valued for its corrosion resistance, magnetism, low friction and hardness.

Gold: This precious metal offers high corrosion, tarnish and wear resistance and is coveted for its conductivity and aesthetic appeal. Silver: Silver is not as corrosion resistant as gold, but it is highly ductile and malleable, has excellent resistance to contact wear and offers excellent aesthetics.

It is also an alternative to gold in applications where thermal and electrical conductivity is needed. Palladium: This bright metal is often used instead of gold or platinum for its hardness, corrosion resistance and beautiful finish. When alloyed with nickel, this metal achieves excellent hardness and plating quality.

Some of these types of electroplating are described in more detail below: Barrel plating: Barrel plating is a method used to plate large groups of small parts.

In this process, parts are placed inside a barrel filled with an electrolyte solution. The electroplating process proceeds while the barrel is rotated, agitating the parts so that they receive consistently even finishes. Barrel plating is best used on small, durable parts, but offers a cheap, efficient and flexible solution. Rack electroplating: Rack or wiring plating is a good option if you need to plate large groups of parts.

In this method, parts are placed on a wire rack, allowing each part to come into physical contact with the electrical power source. Though more expensive, this option is optimal for more delicate parts that cannot undergo barrel plating.

It is important to note that rack plating is more difficult for parts that are sensitive to electricity or have an irregular shape. Electroless plating: Electroless plating, also known as autocatalytic plating, uses a similar process as electrodeposition but does not directly apply electricity to the part. Instead, the plating metal is dissolved and deposited using a chemical reaction in place of an electrical one.

While this option is useful for parts that are incompatible with electrical currents, it is more costly and less productive than other options.

Uses of Electroplating While electroplating is often used to improve the aesthetic appearance of a base material, this technique is used for several other purposes across multiple industries.

These uses include the following: Build thickness: Electroplating is often used to build up the thickness of a substrate through the progressive use of thin layers. Protect substrate: Electroplated layers serve as sacrificial metal coatings.

This means that when a part is placed in a harmful environment, the plated layer breaks down before the base material, protecting the substrate from damage. Lend surface properties: Electroplating allows substrates to benefit from the properties of the metals they are plated with. For example, some metals protect against corrosion, improve electrical conductivity, reduce friction or prepare a surface for better paint adhesion.

Different metals lend different properties. Improve appearance: Of course, electroplating is also commonly used to improve the aesthetic appearance of a substrate. This can mean plating the substrate with an aesthetically pleasing metal or simply applying a layer to improve surface uniformity and quality. Benefits of Electroplating Electroplating offers a range of benefits for components.

Some of the specific benefits of electroplating include the following: Protective barrier: Electroplating creates a barrier on the substrate, protecting it against environmental conditions. In some cases, this barrier can protect against corrosion caused by the atmosphere.

This property specifically benefits components because the parts last longer in more harsh conditions, meaning that they need less frequent replacement. Enhanced appearance: Exterior pieces are often plated with thin layers of precious metals to make them more lustrous and attractive to look at. This plating lends aesthetic appeal without exorbitant costs, meaning that attractive parts can be sold at lower prices.

Additionally, electroplating is often used to prevent tarnishing on silverware, improving longevity and aesthetic appearance over time. Electrical conductivity: Silver and copper plating help improve electrical conductivity in parts, offering a cost-effective, efficient solution for improving conductivity in electronics and electrical components.

Heat resistance: Several metals, including gold and zinc-nickel, are resistant to high temperatures, improving the ability of the substrate to resist heat damage.

This, in turn, can improve the lifespan of plated parts. Improved hardness: Electroplating is often used to improve the strength and durability of substrate materials, making them less susceptible to damage from stress or rough use. This quality can help increase the lifespan of plated parts, reducing the need for replacement. Industries That Use Electroplating Whether your company is looking for corrosion protection, improved durability or increased electrical conductivity, electroplating offers solutions.

How to Galvanize Metal. What Is Zinc Alloy? DIY Electroplating. How to Electroplate Plastic. What Is Magnafluxing? Types of Gold Refining. Methods of Plating Stainless Steel. The Disadvantages of Nonferrous Metals. Causes of Gold Discoloration. Zinc Plating Process. How to Prevent Rust With Coatings. Describe the Process of Electrolysis in the Production Then, electrodes would be attached to each piece of metal as well as to a battery.

Once the power is turned on, the copper molecules will slowly attach themselves to the brass, creating a thin copper coating on the surface of the brass. There are many different types of metals that are great for the electroplating process , and the good news is that we sell electroplating metals in various forms, including wire, powder , ingot, bars and shot.

Common metals used in the electroplating process include black and silver nickel , chromium, brass, cadmium , copper , gold, palladium, platinum, ruthenium, silver, tin and zinc. This alloy contains 95 percent zinc, 4 percent aluminum and 1 percent copper. If you have a specific electroplating need, we can recommend the right metals for you project.

To learn more about the types of metals that are great for the electroplating process, give us a call at , or visit our online store for a fast and smooth ordering process. Contact Us. What is electroplating?