Steel is a metal used in many industries around the world. Steel can be easily stamped, welded, cut into various shapes depending on the type of part the industry requires. Steel without any kind of coating can be less durable and prone to corrosion in many different environments. Electroplating helps strengthen steel components and protect them from corrosive elements. The electroplating process prevents medical equipment from rusting.
Electroplating is a process that uses electrodeposition to coat metals on parts. The part to be coated is the cathode, which is immersed in the electrolyte together with the anode and an electric current is applied. In this case, the medical device will be the cathode. The electrical current causes the anions to move towards the anode (there are different types of anodes depending on the coating applied) and the cations to move towards the cathode, coating the medical device with the desired metal.
Galvanized steel can help reinforce the material. Coated metals on steel can increase the tensile strength of the part, thereby extending the life of the part. Coating adds a protective layer to the steel base of the part. This will prevent the part from being slightly damaged during use, or if it falls or hits another part. If the steel is inherently brittle, the coating helps protect the brittleness of the part. The electroplated coating dissolves before the steel dissolves, which extends the life of the parts used. Medical devices must be able to withstand the rigors of everyday use. High intensity surgery requires some medical equipment. The coating acts as a support for the substrate. Electroplating on medical equipment increases strength and tool life.
The coating also helps prevent corrosion of steel components. Medical devices are often reused. Equipment is thoroughly and aggressively cleaned between uses. Reuse and cleaning of uncoated medical devices can lead to corrosion. The type of coating depends on the extent to which the component is exposed to corrosive elements. This reduces the number of times parts need to be replaced or replaced due to rust. Corrosion can also destroy the integrity of steel, causing it to break down over time and become more brittle.
Throughout history, precious metals have been commonly used for medical devices. Improvements in coating technology and manufacturing have provided various additional coating options for medical devices, such as decorative coatings. Decorative galvanic coatings not only protect steel from corrosion and damage, but also create an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Decorative coatings applied to medical devices are nickel and hexavalent or trivalent chromium.
Steel must be plated to ensure the quality, strength and durability of the parts used. No one wants to go to the doctor for an operation and see rusty medical equipment in the office. Without any coating, medical devices are at a higher risk of becoming brittle, susceptible to corrosion, and unable to withstand frequent use.
In most metal finishing operations, masking is used, where only certain areas of the surface of the part should be processed. Instead, masking can be used on surfaces where treatment is not required or should be avoided. This article covers many aspects of metal finish masking, including applications, techniques, and the different types of masking used.
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Post time: Feb-10-2023