Different Methods for Metal Plating – A Metal Finishing Overview

The numerous benefits of metal plating parts in the automotive industry and other industries inevitably leads to many ways to do metal plating. Below is a general overview of some metal plating methods adopted by professionals:

1. Electroplating

Electroplating is a process used when the metal used for plating is placed in an electrolyte solution with the item to be plated. Electricity is passed through the electrolyte solution making the plating metal shed a little. These small pieces flow in the solution and cover the item to be plated. It is the most common and well-known plating used extensively on various metal pieces to prevent discoloration or deterioration, and strengthen the metallic substance. Examples of electroplating used for commercial purposes include appliances, decorative items, machinery parts, and DeKalb Metal’s main use is: zinc plating of automotive parts.

2. Electroless Plating

Electroless plating is the answer when you do not want electricity to pass through the metal item being coated. It ensures that the metal is protected from oxidation so it does not rust. Instead of using electricity, this method uses chemicals in the electrolytic solution. The plating metal releases some atoms and joins the pieces on the target metal you want to coat. This method is used mainly in automotive plating, but only to a small degree as the durability of the coating in this process is less than the electroplating method.

3. Immersion Plating

Immersion plating increases a metal’s conductivity and hardness and reduces corrosion. This process is slower than other plating methods, and the results are not long-lasting. Also, the plating metal must be noble, i.e., chemically inert. The noble metal immersed in electrolyte solution sheds some ions. The loose ions are pulled towards the metal to be plated. The ions stick to the metal and form the coating around.

4. Plasma Spray Coating

This process is a good option for coating metals subjected to high temperatures that require corrosion protection. On the other hand, there are chances that the conductivity of the metal plated may change. The plating metal used for plasma spray coating is heated to a high temperature in a plasma flame. As soon as the metal melts, it is quickly sprayed onto the metal piece to be coated and then promptly cooled.

5. Other Takeaways

Apart from choosing the type of plating you require, you also need to decide the metal to be used for coating purposes and the look you want to achieve. All metals are not the same. Some work better with a particular method, for example, our zinc plating done in Indiana for automotive parts may not be suitable for other metals or methods. The next time you want to replace a piece of metal because it is deteriorating or rusting, it is better to consider zinc-iron plating. Plating is less expensive than replacement. Contact the experts at DeKalb Metal Finishing to discuss your next commercial zinc plating, zinc nickel plating, or zinc iron plating needs.

Contact the experts at DeKalb Metal Finishing to discuss your next commercial zinc plating, zinc nickel plating, or zinc iron plating needs.