Tin plating is a lower cost alternative than some
protective coatings. Tin also has a good level of conductivity enhancement
properties (as opposed to silver which has higher conductivity) which may be
of benefit to manufacturers seeking to enhance this property somewhat
without adding too much to the price.
- Tin offers excellent solderability
- Tin can cover a wide range of shapes and components
- Tin provides corrosion resistance
Tin plating has a 'whitish grey' hue and is
usuallyapplied without the layer of bright nickel used in decorative
coatings - as such tin has a dull, or matt appearance.
Examples include: electronic components such as
electronic connectors or bus bars, commercial cooking equipment and
jewellery.
Tin can be plated over most metal substrates but
commonly is used on lower value substrates such as mild steel or copper
alloys.
As this is an electrolytic process it is necessary
to use jigging, racking or wiring to provide for electrical current
conductivity. Some shapes lend themselves more easily to this than others.
In some cases the addition of a sprue or hole is necessary. Please consult
your plating adviser prior to finalising design if you intend to use this
finishing process.
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