The preparation step of the metal surface of a manufactured part is the most critical process of electroplating. A properly prepared surface provides an adherent surface for subsequent metal deposits. After a part is manufactured that is to be electroplated, the base metal is typically coated with several layers of soils. These soils may include oxides, scale, lubricants, buffing compounds, rust preventatives, phosphates and handling residues. These soils must be removed to activate the base metal. There are several factors that need to be considered when preparing metal for plating. First, … [Read more...]