Plating

Plating is a surface covering in which a metal is deposited on a conductive surface using specific plating equipment. Metal plating has been done for hundreds of years, but it is also critical for modern technology. Plating is used to decorate objects, for corrosion inhibition, to improve solderability, to harden, to improve wear ability, to reduce friction, to improve paint adhesion, to alter conductivity, for radiation shielding, and for other purposes.

There are several plating methods, and many variations with the most common being zinc plating, including clear & black non hexavalent chromate & trivalent chromate processes, barrel & rack and salt spray protection. The benefits of zinc plating are:

  • Ultra bright color (clear, yellow)
  • Excellent ductility & adhesion
  • Consistent distribution
  • Excellent chromate conversion coating
  • Salt spray protection

Others plating's can include:

  • Electroplating
  • Electroless Plating
  • Nickel Plating
  • Tin Plating
  • Gold Plating