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Electroless (Autocatalytic) Vs Electrolytic Plating

When choosing your form of plating, you need to know the differences in electroplating vs. electroless plating. Some projects will benefit more from electroless plating, also known as autocatalytic, than from electrolytic. Before you make a major decision on how your parts get finished, learn more about the coating options you have for a metal […]

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Zinc vs Zinc Alloys

  Zinc is a hard, brittle metal that is found in abundance in many parts of the world. Zinc electroplating offers an inexpensive alternative to precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum. Its relatively low cost makes the zinc plating process the top choice for companies looking for affordable corrosion protection. The zinc acts […]

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Industrial Uses of Tin Plating

  Tinning or otherwise regularly referred to as “Tin Plating“, is an ancient art form. This synthesis will cover contemporary and future uses of tin plating, strengths and weaknesses of the coating, best in practice tin processing and how to choose the right tin coating. What Industries Make Use of the Electroplating of Tin? The […]

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Key Benefits of Silver Electroplating

What makes silver arguably the noblest precious metal plated? Silver electroplating has been around for eons. Its uses date back to the beginning of coinage and metal smithing. In modern times, silver was first collected as a status symbol of wealth and more importantly functional industrial use. Silver has the most applications as compared to […]

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Key Benefits of Copper Electroplating

You probably already know that copper is frequently used in electrical wiring because it is an excellent conductor of electricity. This also makes copper electroplating an excellent choice on metal surfaces where a high level of conductivity is required. Although copper has a somewhat dull reddish-brown color, the finish can be brightened with the use […]

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Common Applications of Nickel Electroplating

Nickel electroplating serves a variety of practical and aesthetic purposes. From a practical standpoint, nickel plating can help protect against corrosion and improve wear resistance, as well as increase the thickness of a surface. Nickel can enhance the appearance of an object by adding brightness. Nickel plating is often used to create a base layer […]

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Applications for Plated Glass-Filled Nylon

  Nylon is a synthetic polymer that became popular during World War II for producing parachutes and other equipment for the U.S. military. The use of nylon has increased in the ensuing decades. While most people are familiar with nylon fabric and cookware, you can also find it in industrial products such as plastic fasteners […]

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Avoid Flaking When Plating on Ceramics & Plastics

  Plating onto plastics and ceramics can provide a variety of benefits. A coating of gold, silver, nickel or copper will make these somewhat fragile materials stronger and more durable, while increasing their resistance to corrosion as well. The electroplating process can also provide a metallic finish that can enhance a ceramic or plastic product’s […]

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Benefits of Electroplating 3D Prints

Quickly creating parts from a design has made 3D printing a newly popular option in the manufacturing world, especially printing with metals and plastics. Electroplating printed pieces enhances their durability and protects them from wear. The metal finishing could also make the parts more suitable for specific tasks. Quick Links Advantages of Electroplating | Disadvantages […]

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Guide to Composite Materials

Composite materials have very different properties from alloys and pure bases. If you have a plating project, understanding the substrates will help you decide the finishing you need. Thankfully, comprehending composite materials and how plating works on them does not require a degree in chemistry. You only need to know the basics to make an […]

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