Meaning
Mass of a substance altered or deposited by a specific quantity of electrical charge is determined by the electrochemical properties of that substance. For electroplating of plastic parts, the Faraday electrochemical equivalent dictates the amount of metal deposited on the conductive polymer surface per ampere-second of current.
Coating Thickness
Achieving the target thickness of a plated metal layer requires precise calculation of the deposition time and current. By using the Faraday electrochemical equivalent, engineers determine the exact charge needed to plate a thermoplastic component with a given surface area. This ensures the plated part meets industrial specifications for wear resistance and appearance.
Accurate plating thickness also prevents the accumulation of excess metal on threaded features, which would otherwise interfere with the assembly of the finished product.
Process Control
Material waste is minimized when the deposition process is calibrated to the theoretical limits of the electrochemical reaction. Deviations from the Faraday electrochemical equivalent indicate process inefficiencies, such as side reactions or low current efficiency. Tracking these deviations allows plating technicians to adjust chemical concentrations and restore optimal performance.
Material Cost
Metal pricing represents a substantial portion of the total cost of plated polymer components. Using the Faraday electrochemical equivalent helps calculate the precise material cost for a production run, allowing for accurate bidding. This prevents the over-application of precious metals like chrome or nickel, maintaining the profitability of the plating run.
