Surface Treatment of Materials—Electroplating Process
A process that uses electrolysis to deposit a layer of metal onto the surface of a part, thereby preventing metal oxidation and improving wear resistance, electrical conductivity, reflectivity, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. The outer layer of many coins is also electroplated.
Applicable Materials:
1. Most metals can be electroplated, but different metals have varying degrees of purity and electroplating efficiency. The most common include: tin, chromium, nickel, silver, gold, and rhodium.
2. The most commonly electroplated plastic is ABS.
3. Nickel cannot be used for electroplating products that come into contact with the skin, as nickel is irritating and toxic to the skin.
Process Costs: No mold costs, but fixtures are required to secure parts; time costs depend on temperature and metal type; labor costs (medium to high) depend on the specific type of plated item—for example, plating silverware and jewelry requires highly skilled workers due to the high standards for appearance and durability.
Environmental Impact: A large amount of toxic substances are used in the electroplating process, so specialized separation and recovery are required to ensure minimal environmental impact.
