Can Galvano Hengelo silver-plate any metal?

We frequently receive the question whether we at Galvano Hengelo can silver-plate any type of metal.
In this article, we will therefore provide a comprehensive answer to this question.

Technical silver coating

Silver plays a crucial role in the electro and electronics industry due to its excellent electrical conductivity. Silver has very low resistance, making it highly efficient for electrical conduction. It is therefore extremely suitable as a coating for contacts and conductors in current-carrying components and switching systems. Additionally, silver is utilized for its corrosion-resistant properties and for improving the solderability of materials.

Silver-plating aluminum

Galvano Hengelo performs a considerable amount of silver-plating on aluminum. Direct silver-plating on aluminum is not feasible because silver does not adhere well to aluminum surfaces. Therefore, at Galvano Hengelo, we first apply a chemical nickel (NiP or electroless nickel) layer to the aluminum. This layer adheres very well to aluminum. After this treatment, we can silver-plate the aluminum with guaranteed adhesion. Examples of silver-plated aluminum parts include cable connectors for high-voltage cables, frames and housings for test equipment requiring electrical conductivity, and various components used in high-voltage switches.

Silver-plating copper

Another metal that we can silver-plate at Galvano Hengelo is copper. Copper can be silver-plated directly without an intermediate nickel layer. Most silver-plated copper parts are used as contact parts in charging plugs, busbars, or switching elements in distribution boxes.

Silver-plating steel

Just like silver-plating aluminum, applying a silver layer on steel also requires a nickel underlayer for superior adhesion. Silver-plated steel is commonly found in applications such as busbars for electrical distribution systems.

Silver-plating your metal by Galvano Hengelo

Are you looking for a reliable partner to silver-plate your products? Then you’ve come to the right place at Galvano Hengelo. For over 25 years, we have specialized in silver-plating various metals. Over the years, we have optimized our processes and procedures to achieve the best possible results. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or simply request a quote via our quotation form.