What is electroplating?
Electroplating is a general name for processes that create a metal coating on a solid substrate through the reduction of cations of that metal by means of a direct electric current. The part to be coated acts as the cathode (negative electrode) of an electrolytic cell; the electrolyte is a solution of a salt of the metal to be coated; and the anode (positive electrode) is usually either a block of that metal, or of some inert conductive material. The current is provided by an external power supply.
Electroplating is a type of metal finishing where a metal coating is applied to the surface of a part or component using an electric current. The part or component, also called a substrate, is submerged in an electroplating bath and connected to a negatively charged electrode, also called a cathode. The plating metal is connected to the positively charged electrode, also known as an anode. When the electrical current is applied to the circuit, the ions in the coating are oxidized into the bath and deposited onto the substrate. This process is also called electrodeposition, as metal ions are deposited onto the substrate in a thin layer or coating.
Benefits of the electroplating
- Resistance to Corrosion
- Resistance to Wear and Abrasions
- Increased Thickness
- Increased Solder ability
- Resistance to Temperature
- Better Electrical Conductivity
- Reduced Friction
- Better Adhesion
- Better Torque Tolerance
Factors to consider before electroplating:
- Size of Parts
- Volume of Parts
- Geometry of Parts
- Desired Metal Coating
- Preparation Capabilities
- Project Budget
