Can we polish after plating?
Author: Robby
It is possible to polish after plating, but there are some conditions and limitations to be aware of.
Electroplating is a technique that uses an electric current to reduce metal ions to metal atoms and produce a chemical coating with specific properties on the metal. After plating, the surface of electroplated materials is often uneven and oxidised, and needs to be polished. Polishing can improve the flatness and finish of the surface of plated materials and enhance their appearance1.
Polishing Methods
There are two main polishing methods for plating materials:
Mechanical polishing: the surface of plating materials is processed by means of grinding, sanding and polishing using mechanical force. This method can use tools such as precision abrasives and polishing cloths, which are more effective, but attention needs to be paid to the processing intensity and the choice of tools used.
Chemical polishing: the use of chemical solutions on the surface of the plating material chemical reaction, so that the surface oxidation or flaking, to achieve the effect of polishing. Chemical polishing can be divided into strong acid polishing and strong alkali polishing two ways, need to choose according to the actual situation.
Polishing Precautions
The following precautions need to be taken when polishing plated materials:
Adequate testing: Before carrying out polishing treatment, plating materials need to be adequately tested to determine the best polishing programme and method.
Surface cleaning: Before carrying out the polishing treatment, the surface of the object needs to be cleaned to ensure the polishing effect.
Tool and polishing solution selection: Selection of appropriate tools and polishing solutions is based on different materials and plating layers.
Processing intensity control: In the polishing process, you need to pay attention to the processing intensity to avoid over-processing and damage to the plating layer.
Cleaning and maintenance: cleaning and maintenance are needed after the polishing treatment is completed to ensure the surface finish and quality.
Through the above methods and precautions, the polishing treatment of plating materials can be carried out effectively to improve its surface quality and appearance.