Copper plating
With copper plating, the copper layer is red, not to be confused with a brass layer called ‘yellow copper’. The copper coating protects the base metal from corrosion, but as this layer oxidises easily in air, it rapidly changes colour. Copper plating is therefore not suitable for decorative applications unless a finish of aged or patinated copper is desired.
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Copper is often used as an intermediate layer in nickel or chrome plating for even better corrosion resistance or for adhesion to certain metals like zamak and zinc. It can sometimes be useful as a topcoat. For example, in explosion-proof applications to reduce the risk of sparking.
Copper also has good electrical conductivity, but in the case of electrical connections, this may quickly be diminished due to oxidation in air.
- Red colour
- Reduces the risk of sparking in explosion-proof applications
- Good electrical conductivity, but bear in mind oxidation over time
- Often used as an intermediate layer for nickel or chrome plating
- Decoratively applied as aged or patinated copper