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Electroplating
What’s Electroplating?
Electroplating is a surface engineering technique that involves applying a direct current to a salt solution containing the metal being plated, with the metal being plated serving as the cathode and the metal being plated or other inert conductor serving as the anode.
The goal of electroplating is to improve the appearance of a material and impart various physical and chemical properties to the surface, such as corrosion resistance, decorative properties, wear resistance, brazing properties, and electrical, magnetic, and optical properties.
Electroplating Finish Products
Types of Electroplating
Plating Type |
Primary Coating Material |
Key Characteristics |
| Zinc Plating | Zn (Zinc) | Low cost, sacrificial anode protection |
| Copper Plating | Cu (Copper) | High conductivity, excellent ductility |
| Nickel Plating | Ni (Nickel) | Wear/corrosion-resistant, polishable to mirror finish |
| Chromium Plating | Cr (Chromium) | Extreme hardness (800-1000 HV), wear-resistant |
| Tin Plating | Sn (Tin) | Non-toxic, excellent solderability, anti-sulfurization |
| Alloy Plating | Ni-Co, Sn-Ni, etc. | Customized properties (e.g., magnetic, high-temperature resistance) |
FAQ Of Electroplating
Visit our FAQ center for more questions.
How to treat rusted Electroplated Parts?
- Minor Rust: Wipe with white vinegar or diluted hydrochloric acid (5-10%), rinse with clean water, and dry thoroughly.
- Heavy Rust: Sand with sandpaper (400-600 grit), re-electroplate, or spray with rust-proof coating.
- Preventative Measures: Keep dry during storage and apply rust-proof oil or wax regularly.
What materials can be Electroplated??
- Common substrates: Metals (e.g., steel, copper, brass) and some plastics (with conductive pretreatment).
- Typical coatings: Nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), gold (Au), silver (Ag), and tin (Sn).
- Limitations: Non-conductive materials require metallization (e.g., electroless plating) first.
What is the difference between Galvanizing and Electroplating?
The galvanized coating is thicker, generally 30-60 microns, and has a higher corrosion resistance. It is suitable for steel parts used in outdoor work. The surface of the electroplated workpiece is smooth and flat, but because the coating is relatively thin, generally within 5-30 microns, the corrosion resistance time will be shorter than that of galvanized.