Electroplating affects products we use every day. Many items made from plastic or simple metals are designed to be plated later, thereby giving them extra strength, protection or a better appearance.
What Is Electroplating?
Electroplating is where a thin layer of metal is applied to the surface of an object using electricity. The object, called the substrate, is attached to the negative side of an electrical circuit, the cathode. The plating metal is attached to the positive side, the anode.
Both are placed in a special liquid that contains metal salts. When the current goes through the circuit, metal ions travel through the solution and form a thin and even layer on the object.
Why Is Electroplating Useful?
The benefits of electroplating depend on the type of coating. It can help to stop corrosion, make brittle parts stronger or create an even finish. A steel car bumper, for example, might be plated with copper, nickel and chrome to stay shiny for years. In jewellery, gold plating makes items look valuable without the cost of solid gold.
Different metals bring different advantages. Nickel reduces friction, silver improves electrical flow, and gold or zinc nickel plating, like the examples at swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/zinc-nickel-alloy-plating/, can withstand very high temperatures. Because of these advantages, electroplating is used in industries like electronics, aerospace, automotive, medical devices and energy.
The Process in Practice
Quality electroplating requires care, and objects must be cleaned and prepared before plating. The liquid bath’s temperature must be carefully controlled, and the electrical current applied with the right strength and timing.
