Electroplated goods have many different uses. The process can be used to create a decorative finish that gives a high-value feel and look. It can also be used to create a finish that’s functional and has uses in machinery and equipment. Listed below are the uses for electroplating.

Aesthetics
The most common use of electroplating is for aesthetic purposes, where a thin layer of expensive metal is applied to a product made from an inexpensive metal. This gives the product the desired look while keeping the cost low. An example of using electroplating for aesthetic purposes would be jewelry. Pieces of jewelry can be made from common metals at a reasonable price. They can then be electroplated with gold, silver, or other rare metals which will add the desired look to the final product.

Corrosion Protection
Depending on the environment, all metals will corrode. Metals naturally react with the chemicals in the environment and over time these reactions can cause corrosion like rust. Adding a layer of non-corrosive plating finishes, like tricom, nickel, or chromium, will protect the substrate from corroding. These electroplated coatings will break down less quickly and increase the life of the product.

Surface Hardness
Mainly seen in industrial applications, electroplating can be used to create extremely hard surfaces. Metals that are under the stress of heavy use need to be able to withstand that stress. If a soft metal is used without this added hardness, it could flex and possibly break. Chromium electroplating will harden the surface between 65-70 HRc.

Reduced Friction & Wear

When two metal objects are designed to come into contact with each other there is going to be friction between them. Over time, this friction at the contact points will cause wear. There are a number of metals that can be electroplated onto the surface of these objects to reduce the friction, increasing the life and performance.