ELECTROPLATING has a decorative purpose in many product applications, whether used on coated gold or chrome taps, door handles, light fittings or motor vehicles.
Electroplating is a process used to apply a new metal surface coating over a substrate or base material of either metal or ABS plastic. Depending on the coatings or combinations of coatings selected, a variety of outcomes can be gained in terms of the aesthetic and/or hardness and protective qualities afforded by the coatings.
Based on the principles of electrolysis, electroplating involves transfer of metal from an ‘anode’ to the surface of an item via the application of electric current travelling to the ‘cathode’ whilst suspended in an ‘electrolyte’ (a liquid solution of substances which enable the transfer).
Because the process involves the use of electric current the results will reflect the nature by which electricity travels – i.e. to the highest points first. This will always result in slight variations in the amount of anode metal transferred to the various surfaces of an item.
The nature of electroplating therefore demands that some consideration be given to the impact on achieving a desired surface quality from different shapes and designs. For instance if a high build up is not desired in certain areas a rounding of the edge design may provide a better outcome. If a good finish in a recessed area is required there may be a need to adjust the component design or use an auxiliary anode to improve the ‘throw’ of current. In any event both product and rack or jig design play a very important part in the final finish of the product.
A good electroplating adviser can help you work through these and many other issues like substrate condition, polishing for high lustre plating results, dealing with casting pits, machine oil, swarf, or other pre-cleaning challenges.
A Class Metal Finishers 08 8384 4331.