Hastings Metal Finishers & Electroplating Services
Trusted UK Specialists Since 1983
Hastings Metal Finishers provides high-quality electroplating and surface finishing for the engineering industry. Founded in 1983 and led by Managing Director Paul Hastings, a graduate chemist with over 25 years of surface-engineering expertise, we proudly serve more than 200 companies across precision engineering, metal fabrication, and electrical/electronic sectors.
Metal Finishers & Electroplating Services
We offer a full range of electroplating and surface treatments, available in rack or barrel processing for ferrous components, stainless steel, copper and its alloys, and aluminium alloys:
>>> Solvent Degreasing
>>> Acid Pickling
>>> Electroless Nickel, Nickel, Silver, Gold, Tin & Copper Plating
>>> Zinc Plating
>>> Bright Acid Dipping
>>> Clear, Yellow & Black Chromate Passivating
>>> Vibratory Polishing
Our in-house laboratory provides physical and chemical testing to ensure consistent, top-grade finishes.
Benefits of Electroplating
Electroplating enhances both the performance and appearance of components across a wide range of industries. Here’s a closer look at the key advantages:
️ Protective Barrier
Electroplating forms a durable outer layer that shields the underlying material from environmental exposure. This protective coating helps resist corrosion—especially in harsh conditions—extending the lifespan of parts and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
✨ Enhanced Appearance
Aesthetic appeal is one of the most common reasons for electroplating. Thin layers of precious metals, like gold or silver, can be applied to improve shine and visual appeal without significant cost. It’s often used in decorative finishes and to prevent tarnishing on items like silverware—keeping products looking better for longer.
⚡ Improved Electrical Conductivity
Metals such as silver and copper are excellent conductors. Electroplating with these materials enhances the electrical performance of parts, making it an efficient, cost-effective method for boosting conductivity in electronic and electrical components.
Heat Resistance
Certain plated metals—like gold or zinc-nickel—offer strong resistance to high temperatures. This added thermal protection helps maintain the integrity of components in demanding environments, increasing their durability under heat stress.
️ Increased Hardness & Durability
Electroplating can strengthen softer materials, making them more resistant to wear, impact, and stress. Harder, more durable parts result in longer service life and fewer replacements over time.
Metal-Specific Advantages
Some benefits are unique to specific metals:
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Nickel plating: Reduces friction and wear, improving performance and longevity.
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Zinc-nickel alloys: Prevent sharp edge formation during manufacturing, reducing part damage.
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Copper plating: Often used as an undercoat to enhance adhesion of subsequent layers and improve the overall surface finish.
Electroplating uses an electric current to deposit a thin metal coating on a surface, enhancing properties such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, hardness, and appearance. It can also build up thickness on undersized parts or create components through electroforming. From improving tensile strength to reducing electrical contact resistance, electroplating transforms the chemical, physical, and mechanical characteristics of your components.
Contact Hastings Metal Finishers
We provide a high quality electroplating and metal finishing service to the engineering industry. Our process offers flexibility enabling us to deliver high volume, fast turnaround, uniform and consistent solutions.
We pride ourselves on providing an excellent quality service. Please feel free to call us on 0191 483 9213 or use get in touch using the contact form to access your quotation and see how we can help you or your business.