The purpose of plating is multifaceted, including:
- Corrosion Resistance: Protecting the base material from environmental degradation.
- Wear Resistance: Increasing the surface hardness to reduce wear and tear.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Enhancing the appearance with a shiny, decorative finish.
- Electrical Conductivity: Improving the electrical properties for components in electronic applications.
- Reparative Applications: Restoring dimensions and surfaces of worn or mismachined parts.
Plating is widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical for its ability to significantly improve the performance and lifespan of components.