Standard Industrial Plating Types

Standard Industrial Plating Types
Electroplating can be further classified according to the type of metal used to provide the coating. Standard metals include tin, copper, zinc and nickel, as well as various alloys. Let's take a closer look at each metal, including its plating advantages:

Tin – Tin is a relatively soft, malleable metal that is abundant. Because tin is readily available, the tin plating process is often more cost-effective than using other metals. When cost-effective corrosion protection is required, the tin plating process (also known as "tin plating") may be the best choice. In addition, tinning can be precisely controlled for a matte, semi-bright or glossy appearance.

Copper - Most of us know that copper is an excellent conductor of electricity. For this reason, electroplated copper is the preferred metal finishing choice in the manufacture of electronic circuit boards, semiconductors, and other electronic components. In addition to being highly conductive, copper also offers better adhesion.

Zinc – Like tin, zinc is a readily available element, making galvanizing a relatively inexpensive metal finishing option. The main advantage of zinc is that it provides excellent corrosion protection. Galvanizing is primarily used to improve the corrosion resistance of smaller metal parts such as nuts, bolts and screws.

Nickel — Nickel is a strong, shiny metal that is often used as an undercoat before plating precious metals such as gold or silver. Nickel plating can harden the surface of the substrate, thereby increasing wear resistance. Nickel also provides excellent corrosion protection.