Question

Cite 2 methods to deposit metal.

Answer 1

Electroplating is the process of applying metal coating on metallic or non metallic surface through electro chemical process. It is passing the electric current into the metal through the aqueous solution of metal to be deposited. The metal acts as anode whereas the part that is to be plated acts as cathode. It is also called electrodepositing as another metal is deposited by electrolysis. Different metal can be coated on the surface of metals depending upon the metal to be coated.

For example, iron is electroplated with metals such as copper by carrying out electrolysis in copper sulphate solution.

There are different types of electroplating and each has distinctive use depending upon the size and quantities of the part to be plated. There various types of electroplating are:

Mass Plating:
It is also known as barrel plating as the parts to be plated are kept in barrels which are tumbling while remaining immersed in the metal solution to be plated. It is quite economical and efficient in electroplating large objects or parts. However, scratches and bending is the common problem faced in barrel plating. So it is not suitable for delicate objects.

Rack Platting:
In rack plating, the parts to be plated are hung on the racks which are immersed in the metal solution which is to be coated. Although, it is quite expensive compared to barrel plating, however, large and detailed parts can be electroplated effectively without any scratches and bending. Greater process control is required for it.