For decades, manufacturers have learned to perform electroplating to perfection. It is a scientific technique and an art form for many people. It is also an engineering feat that is necessary to design and manufacture many electronics. Rack electroplating is one method used to coat metal on the machines you use every day.
The Purpose of Electroplating
Electroplating is the process of using electric currents to coat metal surfaces. The work involves combining negatively and positively charged ions to create a solid coating. The point is to improve the surface of metal by increasing its luster or resistance to corrosion.
The metal is immersed in a solution of electrolytes, which is then zapped with direct currents that dissolve atoms. It is necessary to use high-powered machines to deliver high currents and coat metal objects in bulk.
Polishing coins is one reason that people use this technique. In addition to copper, they coat every other metal in existence, such as tin, nickel, chromium, bronze, silver and gold. Wherever people see metals in homes and buildings, they are likely to see the results of electroplating.
Electroplating brings about three types of changes to metal: physical, chemical and mechanical. A physical change affects the appearance of the object. In regard to coins, they appear shinier and smoother after being coated. A mechanical change is an improvement in the object’s hardness and strength. A chemical change affects its chemical composition, such as if it rusts or melts.
The Science behind Plating
There are different sciences that are needed to perform electroplating techniques. Electrochemistry is the study of how electrical components affect the chemistry of certain objects. Electrochemists study the chemical reactions that occur after the introduction of electrodes and electrolytes.
The Work of Rack Plating
One form of electroplating is mainly performed on a rack. The rack keeps hold of the objects that need coating. The objects, some collected in large batches, are immersed in the electrolyte solution. Anyone who does not want direct contact with the solution should use the rack.
Important Techniques
It is necessary to keep the work area clean to promote effective results. Oil affects the adhesive qualities of a metal coating. Manufacturers follow industry standards to make sure they clean the metals before starting the process. They perform the water break test to check the cleanliness of the metal surface.
Throughout history, humans have found ways to improve the chemical, physical and mechanical properties of metals. Within a few decades, they have improved the electroplating technique, which uses electricity to create solid metal coatings. Rack electroplating is an improved version of that technique that gives manufacturers the use of a rack. In the future, more improvements will be made to improve the state of metals and everyday products.