Plating is a thin coat of metal overlaid on a different metal as well as the process of adding plating to objects. The process of plating is a centuries-old procedure whose steps can vary depending on the technique used, with some involving the use of plating tanks. You have probably seen a plated item at one point or another, as plating is often used to grant a product the appearance of being composed of a more valuable metal when in reality the majority of the item is made of a more affordable material. Plating is utilized in many areas and with many types of metals, including chrome, silver gold, tin and zinc; here are three of them.

1. Jewelry

Jewelry is one of the most commonly known uses of plating. Necklaces and bracelets made of a cheaper metal like copper and covered with the pricier gold or silver are not an uncommon sight. More people can afford jewelry with a thin layer of silver or gold than solid silver or gold jewelry, and the silver or gold exterior enhances the jewelry’s aesthetics without the cost. Plating also helps paint adhere to surfaces and makes jewelry more wearable.

2. Automobiles

The automotive industry also makes use of plating. Plating adds shine to the surface of the car while also increasing durability. Protective properties such as corrosion resistance and hardening also make plating a good move for automobile manufacturers, who want to produce a sturdy, damage-resistant product.

3. Technology

Plating is also vital to technology. It is used in many electronic components like circuits to shield against corrosion. Electronic wires are also plated for conductivity and solderability.

Plating is a process with many uses that can be done with a multitude of metals through a vast array of methods. It is utilized in many industries, including jewelry, decoration, cars and technological devices like cell phones.