Electro plating is the practice of putting a metal covering on another surface using electricity. This process is typically used to protect the original surface from corrosion. It, however, is used for both functional and decorative purposes. For example, many automobile parts are chrome plated. Electroplating can also be used to coat various parts such as washers, butterfly valves, and steel bolts. Electro plating is also used to coat inexpensive jewelry to offer it a shiny appearance. While modern electro plating was invented in 1805, it was not until 1839 that it became widely used to cover printing press plates.
Electro plating is also called electrodedeposit. The metal used for electro plating is typically not an alloy, though there are a few alloys that can be electrodeposited. This is relatively similar to anodizing. The process is fairly basic. Before the process can begin, the object must be cleaned and polished. Any scratches will only become more noticeable after the process is complete. The object to be coated is attached to a wire and given a negative charge. It is then placed in a salt solution of the metal that will coat it. Because the metal salt ions are positively charged, they are attracted to the object. Once they bond, the process is finished. The shell gains thickness as it sits longer in the bath. Polishing, pre-treatment, and post-treatment are often more essential than the process itself.
The process has evolved over the years. For example, process heating systems, like ovens, have been built into the electroplating equipment manufactured over the years. One of the major concerns with regard to electro plating is the waste produced. Because of costs and government regulations, most facilities have implemented environmental safety measures like water filtration and dust collecting systems. Throughout the process, consideration must be given to all safety issues as well as proper waste treatment and disposal.
