Electroplating

In electroplating a thin metallic coat is deposited on the workpiece by means of an ionized electrolytic solution.  The workpiece (the cathode) and the metallizing source material (the anode) are submerged in solution where a direct electrical current causes the metallic ions to migrate from the source material to the workpiece.

Process Characteristics

Is performed in a tank of ionized electrolytic solution
Transfers a metallic deposit via a direct current
Process variables include time, current, part geometry, and solution contents
Typically utilizes common metals and alloys
Must be performed on very clean surfaces
Is a relatively inexpensive way to apply a desired metallic coating

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Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.