Plating

Electroplating is the technology of depositing metals from solutions onto metallic surfaces by electrolysis. The resulting coating is tightly bonded to the surface and is mineral in nature. Coatings may be used to protect against oxide formation (rust) on base metal surfaces, to assist in electrical conductivity, and in decoration. Popular coatings include cadmium, nickel, zinc and silver.

CADMIUM
Cadmium is a good conductor of electricity, has low contact resistance and is the only plating which will not arc weld. Primarily used to protect iron and steel from corrosion, it provides superior corrosion resistance to zinc in many environments (especially in marine and tropical areas) and is more resistant to organic vapors from electrical insulation and to formic acid from paint films. Cadmium does not form bulky corrosion products and solders readily with non-acid fluxes.

Possessing good lubricity, cadmium prevents galling between sliding metal surfaces. Its good ductility enables parts to be formed after plating - reasons why more cadmium is used for electroplating than for any other purpose.

ZINC
Zinc plating has been the most popular choice for corrosion protection, due to its low cost. The move to provide higher quality and longer lasting finishes has resulted in a shift to more use of alloy zinc deposits - especially in the automotive, aerospace and electrical industries.

PHOSPHATE
Phosphate is used to promote the adhesion of organic coatings to metal substrates including iron, steel and galvanized steel to slow down the rate of interfacial corrosion. Phosphate also retains and enhances the performance of corrosion resistant oils and waxes on metallic surfaces and, with supplementary lubricator, assists in cold deformation processes.

ELECTROLESS NICKEL
Aero Metal offers the low phosphorus version of this popular metallic coating. It is usually plated over steel, aluminum, or copper for its hard, corrosion-resistant finish. Electroless nickel is harder and resists wear much better than its electrolytic cousin. Electoless nickel provides a highly uniform coating; it is ideal for complex shapes and small diameter holes.

Call us today and put the brakes on corrosion of valuable parts!