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Plating deposits a thin layer of metal (zinc, nickel, chrome, gold, silver) onto parts for corrosion protection, wear resistance, conductivity, and aesthetics.
About Plating
Plating is a surface finishing process that deposits a thin layer of metal onto a substrate through electroplating (using electric current), electroless plating (chemical reduction), or mechanical plating. Common plating metals include zinc (corrosion protection), nickel (wear and corrosion resistance), chrome (hardness and aesthetics), gold (electrical conductivity), silver (conductivity and solderability), copper (conductivity and leveling), and tin (solderability). Plating serves functional purposes (corrosion protection, electrical conductivity, wear resistance, solderability) and decorative purposes (bright chrome, gold, polished nickel). It is used across virtually every manufacturing industry.
Tolerances
Adds 0.0001"-0.003" per surface depending on type
Lead Time
3-10 business days
Cost Range
$1-$50+ per part depending on plating type and part size
Compatible Materials
Advantages
- Wide range of metal coatings available
- Precise thickness control
- Excellent corrosion and wear protection
- Decorative bright finishes
- Electrical conductivity for electronics
- Can plate complex geometries
Limitations
- Environmental regulations and waste treatment
- Hydrogen embrittlement risk for high-strength steel
- Masking required for selective plating
- Rack marks on plated parts
- Some plating requires multiple layers
- Chemical handling requirements
Industries Served
Aerospace
The aerospace industry manufactures aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related components requiring the highest standards of precision, quality, and reliability.
Automotive
The automotive industry manufactures vehicles and components, demanding high-volume production, consistent quality, and competitive pricing across a complex global supply chain.
Medical Devices
The medical device industry manufactures instruments, implants, diagnostics, and equipment that must meet stringent regulatory requirements for safety and biocompatibility.
Defense & Military
The defense industry manufactures weapons systems, vehicles, equipment, and components for military applications, requiring the highest security, reliability, and quality standards.
Electronics
The electronics manufacturing industry produces circuit boards, components, enclosures, and assemblies for computing, communications, industrial controls, and consumer devices.
Consumer Products
Consumer products manufacturing produces household goods, appliances, sporting equipment, and personal items through high-volume processes prioritizing aesthetics and cost efficiency.
Plating FAQ
What is the most common industrial plating?
Zinc plating is the most common industrial plating, applied to billions of steel fasteners and components annually for corrosion protection. It is available in clear, yellow, black, and olive drab chromate finishes. Zinc plating protects steel by acting as a sacrificial anode.
What is the difference between electroplating and electroless plating?
Electroplating uses electric current to deposit metal and is faster with better thickness control. Electroless plating uses chemical reduction (no electricity) and provides more uniform thickness coverage including inside holes, recesses, and complex geometries.
What is hard chrome plating?
Hard chrome plating deposits a thick (0.001"-0.010") chromium layer for wear resistance and low friction. It is used on hydraulic cylinders, piston rings, mold surfaces, and industrial rollers. Hard chrome achieves hardness of 65-70 Rc and significantly extends component life.
Can plastics be plated?
Yes, certain plastics (primarily ABS) can be electroless nickel/copper plated, then electroplated with chrome, nickel, or gold. Chrome-plated ABS is common in automotive trim, plumbing fixtures, and consumer electronics. The plastic must be chemically etched to create adhesion.
What plating prevents corrosion best?
For steel in outdoor environments, hot-dip galvanizing (zinc) provides the best long-term corrosion protection. For aerospace, cadmium plating (being replaced by zinc-nickel) is standard. Nickel-chrome plating provides excellent corrosion resistance with a decorative finish.
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