Copper plating consists in applying copper layers on metal elements in order to improve their smoothness (surface lightening).

It is used as a substrate for nickel coatings. The copper plating process proceeds schematically as follows:

•   Degreasing – the aim of the process is to remove the metal surface contaminants such as lubricants, grease, oily substances, polishing pastes and periodical maintenance agents.

•   Pickling – at this stage, in result of the hydrochloric reaction, metal oxides and corrosion products are removed.

•   Cyanide copper plating – the process consists in creating a semi-gloss finish of the copper coating directly on the workpiece surface. The coating is used as a sub-layer for acid copper plating.

•   Acid copper plating – the process consists in creating a soft and malleable metallic copper coating of high shine and micro polished.