People often associate gold plating with jewelry. However, gold has several physical and chemical properties that make it an ideal material for electrical applications. As a noble metal, gold is among the least reactive materials that do not produce compounds upon contact with other elements. Because of this, gold has several advantages that may be worth the price tag of gold plating, making the investment worthwhile. In this article, we will discuss the benefits that gold plating offers for electrical components.
Superior Electrical and Thermal Conductivity
Gold is the third most conductive metal, following copper and silver. However, gold’s non-reactive nature allows it to better preserve its conductivity under harsh conditions over longer periods compared to other materials. Since compounds will not form on the surface of gold plating, it retains the smoothness required for a robust electrical connection.
Corrosion Resistance
Due to its non-reactive properties, gold is very resistant to corrosion, even under the most extreme circumstances. Although gold tarnishes slightly, it is not detrimental and can be restored through polishing. Electrical components require corrosion resistance because oxidation can lead to a less dependable connection.
Increased Durability
Gold plating can extend the life of equipment by protecting components from deterioration. Gold offers excellent resistance to everyday wear and tear, such as fretting. This is what happens when something is repeatedly rubbed against another object, causing erosion. On top of that, gold is also resistant to oxidation and corrosion, as mentioned earlier, making it durable in the face of severe environments.
Conclusion
Gold is an excellent choice for metal plating on electronics. To reap the benefits of this valuable material, you can seek the assistance of gold plating services. With gold plating services, your electric components can enjoy improved conductivity, corrosion resistance, and durability, all of which are important for effective operation.