Platinum Plating Process Technology

Pure platinum is malleable, ductile, and harder than silver. Platinum plating creates parts with high levels of durability, as well as corrosion and heat resistance. It does not tarnish in air, or dissolve in acid, and it has a melting point of 3224 degrees F. In nature, it is generally found as part of the Platinum Group Metals (PGM’s); Platinum, Palladium, Rhodium, Ruthenium, Iridium, and Osmium. 

Benefits of Platinum Coating

Platinum plating offers several advantages. Platinum electroplate coatings typically range from 0.5 to 5 microns, depending on the application. They are applied using a rack fixture submerged in chloroplatinic acid or a sulfate-based platinum solution. Depending on the base metal finish, activation process, and thickness of the platinum coating, the finished product will range in color from tin white to a matte gray finish.

Platinum Electroplating Applications

platinum plating processPlatinum electroplating coats electrodes used in water purification, oil refining, and the manufacturing of fertilizers, acids, and explosives. 

The automotive industry uses platinum-plated catalytic converters to treat automobile exhaust emissions. In the medical industry, platinum plating solution is used on instruments such as catheters and connectors for surgical equipment. 

The electrical and electronics industries use platinum plating for low-voltage and low-energy contacts. Platinum is often used to coat titanium, niobium, or stainless steel anodes in electroplating. 

Platinum is also used in the jewelry industry. Its luster is much purer than silver or gold, enhancing the brilliance of gemstones and diamonds. Platinum plating does not tarnish or oxidize, and it is hypoallergenic—very few people ever experience an allergic reaction. 

Contact the Platinum Plating Experts at Silvex, Inc.

Silvex Inc. can plate on brass, castings, copper, invar, Kovar, steel, stainless steel, and titanium on parts up to 12 inches in length. Want to learn more about our platinum plating process? Contact us today!