Machines & equipment for sale

Leading Methods of Metal Plating

One of the core types of large plant we sell at Riley Surface World, plating lines come in many shapes and sizes depending on the function of their application and the desired quality of the finish.

For what can be a chemically complex process initially, metal plating can provide a component with a fantastic range of improved and new properties. Continue reading to find out what benefits these include and the method for how it’s achieved.

Benefits of Metal Plating

Metal plating offers a range of significant benefits, enhancing both the functional and aesthetic qualities of industrial & commercial products.

One of the primary advantages is increased durability. Metal plating provides a protective layer that shields the underlying material from corrosion, wear, and environmental damage. This is particularly crucial in industries where equipment and components are exposed to harsh conditions such as aerospace, automotive and marine sectors. For instance, chrome plating on automotive parts not only adds an attractive finish but also ensures longevity by preventing rust and surface deterioration. Additionally, plating can improve hardness and resistance to abrasion, thereby extending the lifespan of machinery and tools.

Another key benefit of metal plating is improved conductivity for electronic applications. Metals like gold, silver, and copper are commonly used for plating electronic components due to their excellent conductive properties. This ensures efficient signal transmission and reduces the risk of electrical failures.

Additional benefits that can be provided from metal plating include:

Increased chemical, oxidation or thermal resistance
More aesthetically pleasing or expensive looking appearance
Improved coating adhesion
Tarnish prevention
Reduced friction
Improved solderability quality

Types of Metal Plating - Electroplating

The most known and widely used metal plating method, electroplating is a process that uses electrical current to deposit a layer of metal onto the surface of the part to be plated (substrate) to enhance its properties. Taking place in an electrolyte solution, two electrodes need to be present. One electrode acts as the cathode (object to be coated) while the other as the anode (material used for plating).

When both are immersed, an electrical current is passed through the solution, resulting in metal ions (that have become positively charged) separating from the anode and being attracted to the negatively charged cathode (component) as a thin, uniform coating. To achieve a thicker coating, multiple applications may be required.

Types of Metal Plating – Electroless Plating

Electroless plating, also known as autocatalytic plating, is a chemical method used to deposit a metal layer on a component without the application of an external electrical current. Once the component is cleaned of any contaminates that could interfere with the coating adhesion (the same pre-process is done in electroplating), the component is immersed in an aqueous reducing agent solution containing a catalyst.

The autocatalytic reaction that takes place causes metal ions from a submerged source of metal to separate and coat the component in an even & uniform layer. Plating the component with more intricacy than electroplating, electroless plating has the ability to coat complex geometrical The longer the component remains in the solution the thicker the layer of metal ions deposited, forming a thicker coating.

This more cost-effective plating option offers platers a wide range of metal plating options. One of the most popular processes is nickel plating, for improving the hardness and resistance to components.

As electroless plating doesn’t require the component to act as an electrode and pass electric current it can be used to coat non-conductive materials. For instance copper, gold and silver can be added onto a components for use in electronics or as a base later for electroplating.

Types of Metal Plating – Immersion Plating

A plating process that applies metal coatings via a method of displacement, immersion plating (also known as replacement plating & dip plating) is a plating process exclusively for applying coats of noble metal such as gold, silver, platinum & rhodium.

Taking place in an electrolyte solution featuring ions of the noble metal, the component is immersed in the solution and undergoes a dissolution reaction. The metal ions on the surface of the component dissolve away and are replaced with the noble metal ions in the solution. When the noble metal ions have coated the entire substrate, the process is complete and will halt.

A common application for immersion plating is coating copper parts with silver.

Metal Plating Equipment for Sale

Having specialised in plating lines for over 55 years, Riley Surface World has always seen the value of plating lines and what they can offer the industry, new or used. Our Direct From Site clearances cater to the large plant frequently seen with these treatment lines, check out our latest events or visit our Electroplating & Treatment Lines range to see what is available for you.

Alternatively, if you have a plating line you're looking to sell, call our Direct From Site team at 01922 749284 or email at [email protected] to get the most value for your set up.

Jacquet Weston Engineering Packaged Demineralisation Water Treatment Plant

Manually operated, the de-mineralisation unit produces up to 200 l/h when connected to a 1,000 litre holding tank. At the estimated hourly production of 45 l/h demineralised water the unit will need regenerating every 75-80 hours.

Stock No: MA748
Category: Electroplating & treatment lines
Model: Jacquet Weston Engineering Ion Exchange Plant
Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]: Brake / Storage Tank Ø900 x 1500
Process Stages: Single Stage
Other Info: Producing up to 200 litres/hour
Condition: From a working environment, Good Condition
Sold As Seen Price [?]: £ Login or Register for price.

Buy Now & More Info

Eagle Engineering and Pioneer Prototype Unused, 14 Stage, Semi-Auto, Rack & Barrel Plating Plant

An Unused, 14 Stage, Polypropylene Barrel Plating Plant with Transporter. Includes two barrels and can be commissioned and adapted by the OEM.

Stock No: PIO5701
Category: Electroplating & treatment lines
Model: Eagle Engineering and Pioneer Prototype Manual
Year of Manufacture: 2023
Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]: 830 x 580/1235/1480 x 645
Process Stages: 14
Other Info: Barrels 2 off 385mm wide 300mm Ø
Condition: Brand New, Excellent Condition, Unused, Current Model
Location: Hereford, UK
Direct Site Clearance Price [?]: £ Login or Register for price.
Clearance ends: 29 January 2025 16:30 GMT while stocks last
Part of a Direct Site Clearance: Unused Rack & Barrel Semi-Automatic Plating Plant