Disclaimer: Please note that Graepels does not provide finishing services directly. These services are handled by third parties. The information provided here is intended as a guide to offer an overview of the available finishes and other relevant details

Understanding Electroplating:

Electroplating is a process for surface finishing that uses electricity to deposit metal onto another (metal) part or object. A good example to explain the process is silver Jewlery which can be plated in gold to give the appearance that it is solid gold. Electroplating is opted for when a customer wants to enhance the metal object, this could be for; increased conductivity, corrosions resistance or just simply for aesthetic reasons.

Woven wire mesh can be electroplated, this is where the mesh is coated with a thin layer of metal through an electrochemical reaction which can enhance its properties.

Electroplating Process:

The process has 3 stages

Pre-treatment: The object is fully prepared for treatment this is achieved through ensuring that there are no particles which can cause blisters or flakes. This can also include grease, or oil and even dust. The next step is polishing it to a smooth and even surface.
Treatment: The object is dipped in the cleaning solution and electrified. This process allows the coating to adhere to the object, which is connected to a negative lead of power, a positive piece is then placed directly in the plating solution. The metal atoms on the anode oxidize and dissolve into the electrolyte and adhere to the surface of the metal object. In this case woven wire. The length of time the mesh stays in the solution will ensure the desired thickness.
Post-Treatment: The object is removed from the electrolyte solution. In some instances, certain metal coatings need a clear coat to further prevent tarnishing and enhance corrosion resistance.

Considerations for Electroplating

Electroplating woven mesh is difficult but not impossible. There are a couple of constraints when it comes to this finish including;

Cost: There are a wide range of factors that contribute to the cost of electroplating including the type of metal being plated, size and complexity of the item, thickness of the plating, quantity and batch size.
Uniformity: Achieving a uniform coating on woven wire mesh can be challenging due to its structure. Ensure the electroplating process can deliver consistent results across the entire mesh.
Installation Environment: Consider the environment where the mesh will be installed. Different environments may affect the longevity and appearance of the electroplated finish.
Weight Considerations: Electroplating can add weight to the mesh. Ensure that the additional weight is compatible with the support structures and overall design.

Tank Sizes:

Tank sizes vary greatly depending on the supplier. This is an important consideration as panel sizes may not fit into the tanks if they are too large. Length and Width is often not the issue but the depth of the tank. Though there are suppliers with big enough tanks.

Small to Medium Tanks:

Dimensions: Small to medium electroplating tanks typically range from 1 to 3 meters in length (approximately 3 to 10 feet). These tanks are often used for plating smaller items such as automotive parts, electronic components, and various hardware items.

Large Tanks:

Dimensions: Larger electroplating tanks can be significantly bigger, often ranging from 3 to 9 meters in length (approximately 10 to 30 feet). Some specialized facilities might have tanks even larger to accommodate oversized or bulk items. Used for plating large components such as structural steel parts, large machinery components, or long sections of pipe and tubing.
Wire Diameter and Mesh Size: The diameter of the wires and the size of the mesh openings can affect the plating process. Smaller mesh sizes and finer wires may require adjustments in plating parameters to ensure even coverage.

Complexity and Shape: The three-dimensional structure of the mesh can create challenges in achieving uniform plating, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

We recommend that you liaise with your woven wire supplier, who can best advise you on the options and speak with the suppliers directly to ensure all considerations have been addressed.

Applications

The metal layer enhances appearance, improves durability, and provides specific functional properties. Widely used in industries such as luxury goods, lighting, and interior design, metal plating serves various purposes, from decorative finishes to increasing corrosion resistance and conductivity.

Facades and Cladding: Electroplated wire mesh is used in architectural facades and cladding for buildings. The aesthetic finish, combined with durability and resistance to weathering, makes it an ideal choice for both functional and decorative purposes.

Interior Design: In interior design, electroplated mesh is used for decorative elements such as room dividers, wall coverings, and ceiling panels. The metallic finish adds a modern and sophisticated look to spaces.
Industrial: Electroplated mesh is used in industrial filtration systems to separate particles from liquids or gases. The electroplated coating provides increased corrosion resistance, which is crucial for applications involving harsh chemicals or environments.
Automotive: Electroplated wire mesh is commonly used in automotive grilles and ventilation panels. The corrosion-resistant coating ensures durability and maintains the appearance of the vehicle parts.