Q: Can't you just dip it in the Zinc and...?

A: Electroplating is a complicated multiple step process that must be performed under very strict controls of each step. The actual depositing of the plating is a complex electrochemical reaction that occurs using dissolved metals in an electrolyte solution being charged with large quantities of electricity.

Q: What is better, Zinc or Cadmium?

A: Cadmium is much more resistant to the ravages of corrosion. Zinc is more economical and suits most end users needs. Cadmium is still requested when the part will be used in a harsh environment such as marine and aerospace applications.

Q: What type of parts can BPS process?

A: We are specialists in volume barrel plating. All of the parts we process must be put in one of our plastic perforated barrels. The barrel is then moved through our liquid processing tanks by computer controlled hoists. These barrels rotate slowly in each tank in the sequence. Large parts (larger than your forearm) will not tumble correctly and therefore need to be rack plated.

Q: How fast can I have my parts plated?

A: BPS is known for our ability to help when turnaround time is critical! Rush orders can be returned in 24 hours (with a small expedite charge).

Q: What are all the different colors for and which one is better?

A: Our parts are colored using a chromating process. Chromates contain chrome metal that will enhance the corrosion resistance of any plating. Chrome metal is a dark reddish brown metal. The rule is usually the darker the color the more corrosion resistance is added to the plating . The more chrome the chromate contains the darker the color. In order of increasing corrosion resistance: White-Blue-Yellow-Black-Olive Drab.

Q: What is a salt spray test ?

A: A salt spray test is a method to test the relative salt corrosion capabilities of different metal finishing techniques. The plated parts are placed in a closed testing chamber that has a perfect 5% salt solution maintained to a perfect 95 degrees. The salt solution is sprayed or fogged on the parts constantly to accelerate the corrosion rate so the quality of the finish can be measured. Using the salt spray test you can test the effectiveness of chromates as well as the plating itself.

Q: Does BPS have any hidden charges such as trucking or environmental surcharges?

A: We at BPS believe that the price quoted should be the final price. There have never been any hidden charges and there never will.