Silver Plating

Silver plating is simply the method of depositing a thin layer of silver onto a conductive surface. The surface normally consists of a conductive metal base which allows a current to be passed through it to form a complete circuit. This allows the silver particles in the electrolyte solution to bond with the item being silver plated, the item being electroplated is also referred to as the cathode.
When plating silver, it is a white colored semi-precious metal. Due to its property of high electrical conductivity it is often used in the electronics and semiconductor industries. Due to silver’s conductivity, the microwave and satellite industries use it to carry high frequency signals and reduce the amount of heat generated compared with copper. Another benefit is the reduction in “skin depth” generated when using silver compared to other less conductive materials.
Silver is also the best heat conductor of all metal plating materials, and offers great solderability. Unlike copper, oxidized silver retains a conductive surface. Copper oxide builds resistance that is much higher than silver oxide.
Silver’s lubricity and high temperature resistance allow engine manufacturers to use silver in the place of lubricants. It is used on bearing surfaces and anti-galling applications. Some applications might be bearings or gear teeth that are exposed to high temperatures in jet engines, or auxiliary power units where lubricants fail.
Hardness varies from about 90 Brinnell to 135 Brinnell hardness numbers depending on process and plating conditions. Solderability is excellent, but decreases with age. Plating silver offers the best electrical conductivity, though this conductivity diminishes with time and oxidation.
Silver acts as an economically beneficial metal plating that may be put to good use for a lower price compared to other precious metals like gold or platinum.

Matte silver plating : is used in areas requiring low electrical resistance and good solderability
Semi bright silver plating : is used where low electrical resistance isn’t a primary requirement and in some areas where a decorative finish is desired. Semi bright silver is more resistant to fingerprinting during assembly operations than matte silver and it has good solderability Properties

Silver gives excellent anti-fretting properties as well as providing a corrosion resistant surface. It also has high electrical conductivity, and is FDA compliant (previously ‘FDA approved’) for applications in the food and medical industries.