INTA Technologies Corporation 2281 Calle de Luna, Santa Clara, CA 95054 || Tel: 408-748-9955 || Fax: 408-727-3027

 

 

Silver Plating

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is silver plating used for?

Silver plating has many functions and is used for many purposes and applications. Here are a few examples:

Conductivity – highest conductivity of all metals

Solderability

Corrosion resistance

Durability

Wear resistance

 

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What do I need to know about silver plating?

Consider adding an anti-tarnish dip to your design if worried about cosmetics because over time the silver will tarnish and dark spots will appear. Silver plated parts should be stored in dry areas.

 

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How much does silver plating cost?

Silver plating costs are mainly driven by labor costs. The silver itself is fairly inexpensive.

 

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Does INTA Technologies work with jewelry?

No, not at this time.

 

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How fast can INTA plate parts?

Standard lead time is five (5) days. Same day or expedite service available in many cases for an additional charge.

 

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How pure is the silver INTA plates with?

99.99%

 

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Can we visit INTA’s facilities?

Yes, we encourage visitors. Contact Blake Kneedler 408-748-9955 x113 or bkneedler@intatech.com to arrange a visit.

 

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What materials can be silver plated?

Partial list:

Copper

Steel

Copper tungsten

Graphite

Aluminum

Ceramic

Plastic

Molybdenum

Titanium

Zirconia

Kovar

Quartz

MACOR

Inconel

Alloys

 

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What is a good thickness for silver plating?

Depends on the application. The thickness may vary from .00002” to .002” depending on the intended use of the coating. To discuss your project please contact Blake Kneedler, Estimator 408-748-9955 x113 or bkneedler@intatech.com

 

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How does silver plating work?

Silver plating involves various processes depending on the type of substrate. Silver plated ceramic, plastic and metal each have their own process. See http://www.finishing.com/faqs/howworks.html for helpful information.

 

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Can plastic be silver plated?

Yes, definitely.

 

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Can INTA control the surface deposit (bumpiness)?

Yes, be sure to inform INTA what type of deposit you prefer. We can produce a rough surface if needed.

 

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What type of silver does INTA normally plate?

INTA normally plates Type II or Type III. Matte silver is fairly uncommon and has a much longer lead time to allow for set-up and calibration.

 

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What is the lead time for special silver orders?

Special orders usually take at least 2 weeks, sometimes more. Standard lead time for normal projects is 5 days. Expedite is available in many cases for an additional charge.

 

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What about matte silver?

INTA offers matte silver but mainly for very large orders and you can expect a longer lead time to allow for set-up and calibration.

 

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Can we have our copper part silver plated?

Absolutely, yes.

 

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Cu 101, Cu 102, Cu 110, all can be silver plated?

Yes, OFHC or mill copper can all be silver plated.

 

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Can we have a coat on top of the silver plating? What topcoats are offered?

Choices include:

 

Gold

Nickel

Tin

Platinum

Copper

Platinum

Rhodium

Other

 

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How well does silver plating protect against corrosion?

It works well but does discolor and form an oxide layer. If concerned about corrosion perform salt spray and saline soak tests on coupons. Anti-tarnish dip is recommended in many cases.

 

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Will silver plated items oxidize?

It depends on the environment but it is possible.

 

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How should I store silver plated parts?

Cool, dark, dry place with protective packaging.

 

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What about silver filled epoxy, can INTA plate onto that material?

Yes, in most cases.

 

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Is INTA Technologies willing to assist me in writing specifications and drawing revisions?

INTA Technologies has many experts working full-time in-house. Consider INTA as a valuable resource when revising drawings, designing or writing technical specifications. In most cases there is no charge for our help and advice. INTA is ready, willing and able in most cases to assist. Send an email to contact@intatech.com detailing your project. Include drawings, specifications and relevant details.

 

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Interesting and Informational Links

http://www.cprac.org/rigola_pml/imagenes/image020

Silver plating flow chart (diagram).

 

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Last revised: 26 JUN 2008