The Metal Stamping Parts itself may be made of a non-ferrous metal such as copper, with the precious metal plating only used for the connection point. “These metals are often used for applications that require high reliability for product safety, such as sophisticated electronics in automobiles for collision mitigation,” he adds. In contrast, plating with non-precious materials, such as copper, nickel or tin, may be appropriate for applications that transmit a signal, such as headlights, turn signals, and radio switches.

Metal Plating Processes

The optimal metal plating process is chosen based on the stamped metal material, the type of part, and the location of the plating. For complex stamped parts, plating is typically done with a reel-to-reel operation, particularly for spot plating. Barrel plating is a less expensive process that provides overall plating.

Reel-to-reel plating

Reel-to-reel plating is used for intricate and delicate stampings, which the metal stamper provides to the plating firm on a specially designed strip. This method is best for micro- and spot plating of precious metals to minimize material waste but can also be used for overall plating.

Barrel plating

Barrel plating can handle large volumes of small durable parts economically and quickly. Stampings are placed as loose pieces into a rotating barrel with an electric current and immersed in an electrolytic plating solution, such as zinc or zinc nickel. The solution covers and burnishes the parts as they tumble, which also helps to remove burrs and scale. Barrel plating is often used to prevent corrosion and wear, as well as for aesthetic purposes.

Rack plating

Rack plating provides greater protection for the stampings as the parts are mounted on racks and do not move during plating. Rack plating is preferred for delicate and intricate stampings, as it is more effective at plating complex geometries. Rack plating also produces a higher quality finish, which is critical for industries such as automotive, medical devices, and electronics. However, it is more expensive than barrel plating and may require the development of custom racks, depending on the stamping.