Stainless steel is a metal alloy primarily composed of iron that exhibits remarkable resistance to rust and corrosion. It belongs to the steel family, which is further classified into four significant categories: carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, and stainless steel. The defining feature of stainless steel is its 10.5% chromium content, along with 1.2% carbon and other trace elements.
The 10.5% chromium reacts with oxygen to form a thin layer of chromium oxide on the surface of the steel. This layer is invisible and protects the underlying steel from rust and corrosion. This makes stainless steel a strong metal that requires very little maintenance. It is widely used in various industries due to its exceptional durability, strength, and corrosion-resistant properties.
Although stainless steel is innately resistant to corrosion, there are several reasons why you might consider plating it based on your intended application and usage.
Benefits of plating stainless steel
Stainless steel can be plated with a variety of finishes, from copper to silver. This can certainly enhance the material’s aesthetic appeal. In our experience, clients often request plating for additional properties that are not inherent to the material itself.
- To get different cosmetic finishes
- Using nickel plating to get enhanced conductivity.
- A coating of nickel prior to full plating gives improved adhesion.
- Forming stronger solder joints through improved solderability
- Hardening of steel components
- Although the primary purpose of plating stainless steel is not for protection, plating can add an extra layer of protection for various environments such as chemical exposure, high temperatures, water, outdoors, and grease.
The plating process
To ensure a high-quality finish, additional steps should be taken before plating the material. Proper cleaning and surface preparation are essential to allow the substrate to bond with the layer. Our dedicated metal preparation area offers a range of blasting and cleaning processes to ensure that our customers receive a quality product.
Stainless Steel Applications
Stainless steel is a versatile material that finds application in various industries and products.
- Automotive parts
- Medical and surgical instruments
- Architecture and construction
- Cookware and kitchenware
- Oil and gas
Plating on Carbon Steel
Customers can opt for carbon steel, a durable material with low tensile strength. It can be plated using electroless methods, which are often more cost-effective.
Get in touch
If you have stainless steel and want to enhance it or learn more about the types of finishes available, please reach out to us today. We offer stainless steel plating with a range of finishes to meet our clients’ needs. Our expert team can guide you towards the most appropriate plating method for your desired results.