Three metal plating processes

Metal plating is used across a huge range of industries to apply specific properties or finishes to a metal piece. For example, it might be plated to reduce corrosion or to achieve an attractive coloured metal finish. There are four main plating processes, which we’ll introduce below.

Electroplating

To do this, electrodeposition is used to apply the metallic coating onto the workpiece. The process uses electrolysis, which transfers the anode’s metal layer to the cathode, or the layer that’s being plated. This takes place while the materials are both immersed in a solution with electrolytes, using an electric current. It’s usually used for metal that needs to be uniform in thickness, repeatable in quality, and strong.

Electroless Plating

With electroless plating, a chemical method is used without an electric current to apply the metal coating. For example, specialists in electroless nickel plating will immerse the metal in a solution with a catalyst and reducing agent. The electroless nickel plating process then converts metal ions onto the surface for a metal deposit. It’s often used with plastics for durability and cosmetic finishes.

Immersion Plating

With immersion plating, the base metal is dipped into a solution that has noble metal ions. These trigger a reaction that deposits the metallic coating onto the base metal. It’s used for situations where the coating needs to be controlled and thin, rather than heavy and strong.

The right plating process depends on various factors, particularly the end purpose of the metal and its intended properties. The cost and budget will also be factors that influence the final approach.