Mil spec plating is the process that is used for industrial and military applications. Regardless of the industry, people need hardened metals that resist all types of damages from scratching to rusting. Metal manufacturers follow certain industrial specifications to help them create strong, durable products. With these specifications, they are able to create metals that resist degradation and last for decades of continual use.
Plating for Industrial Applications
Plating creates products that are valuable to consumers and industrial workers. There is a long list of industrial uses for hardened metals. The military need plating to strengthen their tanks and armor. Railroad engineers need metals that are strong enough to resist corrosion and abrasion. Factory workers need plated metal for the industrial equipment they use every day.
Gold Plating
Gold plating is the process of applying a gold layer onto a non-gold surface. The gilding technique is popular with consumers who want gold applied onto the surface of an object, such as a telephone to a car.
Gold is an ideal material because it conducts heat and electricity well without easily changing its chemical state. The strong conductivity makes it ideal for use in electrical connectors. Gold plating is used to manufacture both electronics and jewelry. Manufacturers apply gold surfaces onto silver or copper objects to dramatically change the appearance. This reduces the costs of buying gold-plated items instead of pure gold ones.
Zinc Plating
Zinc plating, also known as galvanization, is the process of coating steel or iron with zinc. This method prevents the rusting and degradation of the metal.
Hot-dip galvanization involves dipping the metal parts directly into a pool of zinc. In some cases, the hot dipping metal is not preferred because it reduces the strength of the metal. Also, galvanizing steel does not prevent its inevitable rusting caused by rain. The method is not long lasting on steel roofs and other items left outdoors. A constant exposure to salt is another factor that reduces its quality. Proper maintenance ensures that most galvanized steel products last for long periods of time.
Copper Plating
Copper plating is the process of applying layers of copper onto other metals, such as gold or aluminum. Common copper plated items are coins, jewelry, and furniture. An acidic or alkaline bath is used to complete this process. Of all metals, copper is one of the most popular ones used for decorative applications.
Whether soft gold or electroless nickel is involved, mil spec plating is a process that is controlled by industry standards. There are many different types of metals that react in different ways. It is necessary to pay attention to specifications in order to make sure that everything comes together correctly. Few manufacturers can take chances when it comes to building safe and efficient products for everyday consumers.
