Gold Plating
For those seeking electrical and thermal conductivity (especially at low voltages), exceptional solderability, corrosion resistance, and superb infrared reflection properties, Gleco offers gold plating in several specs: MIL-G-45204, ASTM B488 or AMS 2422.
There are three types of gold plating, Type I, II, and III representing a range of soft and hard gold formulations:
- Type I requires a minimum of 99.7% gold with a hardness grade of A, B, or C.
- Type II requires a minimum of 99.0% gold with a hardness grade of B, C or D.
- Type III requires a minimum of 99.9 % with a hardness grade of A.
Soft gold plating is used when higher purity is required, such as in soldering, wire bonding, and high-temperature/corrosion-resistant applications.
Hard gold plating is often used in applications containing constant sliding or connection wear (e.g., female-to-male interconnect pins or contacts).
Unlike silver, gold is a noble metal that does not oxidize or react chemically (under normal conditions).
The Gold Plating Process
Gold plating is applied in three simple steps:
- Parts are carefully cleaned to remove surface contaminants (e.g., oil, grease, etc.).
- The gold plating bath is prepared with consideration for both the surface and application.
- Parts are lowered into the prepared plating solution.
Material Options
Gold plating can be applied to a variety of metal substrates:
- Mild, Hardened, and Stainless Steels
- Copper Alloys
- Brass
- Aluminum Alloys
- Inconel
- Hastalloy
- Monel
Benefits of Gold Plating
Gold plating is preferred by the electronics and semiconductor markets for numerous reasons, including:
- Aesthetics
- Electrical and thermal conductivity
- High solderability
- Corrosion and wear resistance
- Infrared reflectivity
Gold Plating Applications
Gold plating is used by medical, electronics, and telecommunications industries to finish:
- Circuit boards
- Transistors
- Computer chips
- Semiconductor components
Whether you require Soft Gold Plating for more malleable applications or Hard Gold Plating for more durability, the plating experts at Gleco Plating can help.