Electroplating vs. Galvanisation — What's the Difference?

Allows for precise control over the thickness and composition of the plating layer.

Typically less expensive than stainless steel and other corrosion-resistant metals.

Commonly used in industries such as electronics and fine jewelry.

Commonly used in industrial applications, infrastructure, and construction.

Can be applied to various metals including non-ferrous surfaces.

The zinc coating provides cathodic protection where it corrodes as a sacrificial anode to protect the underlying metal.

Used for enhancing appearance, preventing corrosion, reducing friction, or increasing thickness.

The process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron, to prevent rusting.

A process that uses electrical current to coat an electrically conductive object with a relatively thin layer of metal.

The thickness of the zinc layer can be controlled by the time the steel is left in the molten zinc bath.

Electroplating is a general name for processes that create a metal coating on a solid substrate through the reduction of cations of that metal by means of a direct electric current. The part to be coated acts as the cathode (negative electrode) of an electrolytic cell; the electrolyte is a solution of a salt of the metal to be coated; and the anode (positive electrode) is usually either a block of that metal, or of some inert conductive material.

Alternative form of galvanization

To coat or cover with a thin layer of metal by electrodeposition.

Stimulation with a galvanic current

Present participle of electroplate

Stimulation that arouses a person to lively action;

A process of coating the surfaces of a metal object with a layer of a different metal through electrochemical means, usually to exploit different properties of the materials.

Either the work of covering with metal by the use of a galvanic current or the coating of iron with zinc to protect it from rusting

The art or process of depositing a coating (commonly) of silver, gold, or nickel on an inferior metal, by means of an electric current. The metal to be deposited on an article is usually used as the anode and the article to be plated as the cathode, in an electrolyte solution in which the plating metal is the cation. The process is conducted in a tank called an electroplating bath, which holds the electrolyte solution.

Products include outdoor constructions like guardrails, roofing, and highway barriers.

Due to its robust zinc coating, galvanization effectively protects steel structures from harsh environmental elements.

Electroplating is used for aesthetics, corrosion resistance, improved hardness, and altering electrical conductivity.

Electroplating can be applied to most metals, but the substrate must be conductive.

Yes, electroplated items can be recycled, but the plating needs to be removed or treated separately.

Yes, electroplating can be used to restore dimensions and protect against further wear and corrosion.

Higher temperatures can increase the rate of deposition but may compromise the quality of the coating.

The thickness is often measured in microns, using specific gauges post-application.

Galvanized steel can last decades longer than untreated steel, especially in outdoor environments.

The quality is influenced by the cleanliness of the steel and the zinc bath temperature.

While useful, electroplating involves chemicals that can be harmful if not managed properly.

Alternatives include stainless steel, painting, and plastic coating, each with different benefits and costs.

Proper ventilation and protective gear are essential due to the high temperatures and fumes.

Both processes have environmental impacts, but modern regulations require methods to minimize harm, such as recycling and waste treatment.

Generally, galvanization is less expensive than electroplating, especially for large volumes.