PRECIOUS METAL PLATING FOR VARIOUS
BASE MATERIALS
Gold,
silver and other precious metal finishes are
available through
Metal Finishing Technologies, Inc.'s resourceful
systems. Barrel, basket and rack electroplating
allow flexibility in achieving the desired functional
or decorative finish. Plating of precious
metals can occur on a variety of base material
substrates including ferrous and non-ferrous
based alloys. Due to their physical properties,
most require a pre-plate coating prior to application.
GOLD AND SILVER DIFFERENTIATION
Gold is a ductile finish
which is very conductive and corrosion resistant. Because
of this, gold plating is frequently used in the
electronic industry for the plating of electrical
contacts. However, because of its appearance,
it is also desired as a decorative finish for pens,
jewelry and other luxury items.
Conventional silver electroplating
is used for decorative items such as tableware and candlesticks,
but is less resistant to corrosion than gold and can
tarnish more readily. Silver plate however is
high in conductivity and therefore is used for electronic
components. In addition, many bearing products
are electroplated with silver due to the lubricity of
the finish. |
