Originally Published on: SpendEdge | Electroplating Market: Types of Electroplating, Applications of Electroplating, Supply Market Overview

Electroplating is the procedure of plating one metal onto another using hydrolysis.

Electroplating is widely used to modify the surface properties of objects, such as corrosion resistance and abrasion resistance. During this procedure, an electric current is carried through an electrolyte (solution) containing two terminals known as electrodes. These electrodes are connected to the power source or battery via a circuit. Upon conducting an electric current through the circuit, the electrolyte in the solution splits, and a thin layer of metal atoms are deposited on the surface of one of the electrodes. In the electroplating procedure, metals such as copper, gold, nickel, zinc, silver, cadmium, chromium, and tin are utilized. This process is regarded as an essential aspect of the production of electrical and electronic appliances, as it provides a coating on the metal surface of components used in the manufacture of such devices. This improves the substrates' resistance to corrosion, electrical conductivity, and solderability. There are numerous applications for electroplating, but before we delve into those, let's examine its various forms.

Mass plating is one form of electroplating used to plate a large quantity of components in a short amount of time. To conduct mass plating, a barrel containing parts is loaded and then placed inside a container containing the coating material. Following this, the barrel is rotated to ensure that all internal components are uniformly coated to prevent corrosion. Mass plating is one of the most prevalent forms of electroplating and one of the most widely utilized processes. Nonetheless, the mass plating procedure brings parts into contact with one another, which can have a negative impact on the coatings. Therefore, components requiring a high level of aesthetic appeal can be electroplated using a different method.

    Electrical connectors, consist of bolts, nuts, screws, washers, and pins.

Rack plating is used to electroplate large, intricate, and brittle components that are difficult to electroplate using other methods. In this method, elements are mounted to a "rack" and then submerged in a plating solution. This method provides uniform coating distribution because the rack contains multiple parts that are plated simultaneously. These electroplating processes are typical for aluminum and zinc, and chromium and nickel are typical plating solutions. Before deciding on this procedure, the shape, size, and quantity of the components must be considered.

In continuous plating, items such as tubes, filaments, and strips are plated by passing them one at a time through a plating solution. This procedure involves the uniform application of a coating material such as zinc, aluminum, or tin to a metal such as steel. It serves to improve a metal's corrosion resistance, appearance, wear, or other properties. 

Applications of Electroplating to learn more about the uses of electroplating.

Forms a protective layer – One of the most important applications of electroplating is that it enables parts to last longer and require fewer replacements. Additionally, it helps the metal withstand the extreme conditions.

Enhances appearance – This is one of the most advantageous implementations of electroplating, which helps make products more aesthetically pleasing. Jewelers can sell items that appear to be unadulterated gold or other precious metals for much less money.

Reduces friction – This is one of electroplating's useful applications. It aids in enhancing efficacy and significantly reduces friction.

Prevents the formation of whiskers - This is one of the most prominent applications of electroplating, as it reduces the damage caused by discharges and arcing in electrical components and parts.

Improves durability – Plating makes metal surfaces less susceptible to injury when dropped or struck, thereby increasing the metal's lifespan.