Electroplating has been a technique used for almost a century. It’s common in almost all metalworks, yet very little is known about it, in terms of common knowledge. To explain it in a simple manner, electroplating is the process of coating objects in a thin layer of precious metals. The kind of metal used depends on its purpose, but a variety is used.
If you’re interested in the practice, here’s an overview of the different types of plating and the benefits they can bring you.
The Different Types of Electroplating
Electroplating has several benefits, but some precious metals have qualities that others do not. In general, they all share some consistent characteristics such as forming a protective barrier and reducing the friction of the component they’re coated on.
However, it’s important to specify the strengths of the four main types of electroplating that we offer.
Nickel Plating
Nickel electroplating could be considered the most common. It provides fantastic corrosion resistance, durability, and friction reduction, whilst also being combined with other plating materials.
It can be used decoratively, for a utility or combined with other precious metals to create a finish with the best of both worlds. You’ll most often see an electroplated nickel in the enhancement of consumer goods, due to its versatility and resistance to wear.
Chrome Electroplating
Chrome plating will most often be seen when toughness and durability are needed most. For example, wheel rims and motorcycle parts. It works well as a decorative feature too.
Chrome is especially strong, due to the precious metal – chromium, being used. It’s naturally resistant to chemical changes such as oxidisation or rust, and at its core – a very tough metal.
Chrome Electroplating
Chrome plating will most often be seen when toughness and durability are needed most. For example, wheel rims and motorcycle parts. It works well as a decorative feature too.
Chrome is especially strong, due to the precious metal – chromium, being used. It’s naturally resistant to chemical changes such as oxidisation or rust, and at its core – a very tough metal.
Brass
Brass electroplating is made through a combination of copper and zinc. Most often you’ll see brass used for decorative purposes. However, it can often be applied when adhesion is needed, for example between rubber to steel.
Nickel Plating
Nickel electroplating could be considered the most common. It provides fantastic corrosion resistance, durability, and friction reduction, whilst also being combined with other plating materials.
It can be used decoratively, for a utility or combined with other precious metals to create a finish with the best of both worlds. You’ll most often see an electroplated nickel in the enhancement of consumer goods, due to its versatility and resistance to wear.
Copper Plating
Copper has excellent thermal and electrical efficiency, so as a rule, this is what copper electroplating will be best suited to, its conductive nature makes it fantastic for electrical appliances. However, it’s becoming more and more popular as a decorative feature in a home, for bathroom and kitchen fittings,
Moreover, copper plating can be used with other metals, much like nickel, to create a finished product with multiple qualities.
Copper Plating
Copper has excellent thermal and electrical efficiency, so as a rule, this is what copper electroplating will be best suited to, its conductive nature makes it fantastic for electrical appliances. However, it’s becoming more and more popular as a decorative feature in a home, for bathroom and kitchen fittings,
Moreover, copper plating can be used with other metals, much like nickel, to create a finished product with multiple qualities.
Brass
Brass electroplating is made through a combination of copper and zinc. Most often you’ll see brass used for decorative purposes. However, it can often be applied when adhesion is needed, for example between rubber to steel.
Contact Broadway Metals for All Your Electroplating Needs
At Broadway Metals we have years of experience in the metalwork industry. We offer a variety of services including electroplating to make sure you receive products fast and promptly. We often deliver the next day and even provide free quotes. Get in touch with us to find out more.