What Kind of Plating Do You Need?

When you need objects electroplated, it is best to determine which plating type best meets the requirements of your part. Electroplating companies offer a wide variety of plating types, but the procedure is similar for each. The electroplating process uses an electric current to cover an object in plating material that may be comprised of a combination of metals including zinc, iron, nickel. An alloy is produced from a mixture of different materials, and the type you should choose depends on the qualities you are looking for.

Zinc-Nickel Alloy Plating

This kind of plating is accomplished by adding 12-15% nickel to an alkaline electrolyte. The result is highly corrosion-resistant product suitable for many applications. Many electroplating companies use zinc-nickel plating to prepare items for the automotive industry, given the extremes of heat and cold and combustion that can cause considerable wear and tear. The results are a bright finish that can handle the bonding of rubber to metal. In addition, the metal has strong adhesive qualities and is resistant to thermal shock.

Zinc Iron Plating

Zinc iron plating involves adding 0.4% to 0.8% iron to the alkaline electrolyte. The results are fine-grained and resistant to stress and thermal shock. In addition, they mesh well and are burn-free with an even coating that stands up to significant wear and tear. Zinc iron plating is used by electroplating companies for objects that require a certain amount of versatility and require a proper amount of iron concentration. The zinc-iron plating process meets industry specifications and the products stand up to inspection.

Zinc Alkaline Plating

Optimum results from zinc alkaline plating result in a product that has acceptable corrosion resistance while maintaining a relatively low cost. The products are burn-free and stand up to extreme temperatures effectively. Effective zinc alkaline plating is performed without the use of cyanide and produces items that are bright and are stress-free.

The Right Plating

Consult with electroplating companies such as DeKalb Metal Finishing to see which kind of plating is best for your item. Some materials may be more suited to a certain type and process of plating, depending on the function. Corrosion resistance and aesthetics are among the many reasons for plating and require different kinds of materials to achieve the desired results. Plating for the automotive industry, for example, is best-suited for certain types of materials, whereas other types of plating are commonly used in other industries.