Plating and coating are both methods used to cover the surface of a material to enhance its properties, and the terms are often used interchangeably. However, they differ in their application and composition:
- Plating: This involves depositing a layer of metal onto a substrate using electrochemical or chemical processes. Examples include thin dense chrome plating, gold plating, and nickel plating. Plating is primarily used for improving corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
- Coating: This can include a broader range of materials and techniques, such as paint, powder coating, or polymer coatings. Coatings can be applied by spraying, dipping, or brushing, and are used for protection against corrosion, improving appearance, and providing thermal or electrical insulation.