Cadmium plating involves placing a coat (or plate) consisting of a thin layer of material--in this case, cadmium--over an object. In general, plating is used for protection against corrosion and, overall, making an object last longer. Cadmium plating offers several advantages: superior resistance to corrosion; anti-galling, anti-fungal and anti-static qualities; solderability and ductility. Cadmium plating is mostly used in aerospace and military applications, but it's useful for any parts that will be used in harsh environments.

As you seek information about the cadmium plating process, consider whether your business can handle the job itself or whether your require the services of a company specializing in cadmium coating. If you require only occasional, small applications of cadmium, it may be cost effective to do the work yourself. But if you have larger-run needs, it's probably most cost effective to hire an expert. When thinking about cadmium plating, consider the following:

1. Do you need new or used cadmium electroplating machines?

2. Do you require cadmium plating solution and other supplies?

3. Do your needs suit the use of a company specializing in cadmium plating services?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a cadmium plating machine and other equipment

Commercial cadmium plating machines are available for your business, as are nearly complete setups better suited to small- to medium-runs. Look for warranties on both new and used plating equipment, as well as distributors willing to help you with the setup process.

I recommend: Plating Sales offers 2- to 15-gallon "studio tank plating kits," which include nearly all the equipment you need to get started with cadmium plating. Automate-Tech sells plating equipment, including items used in cadmium plating.

Buy cadmium plating kits and supplies

Once you have your machine, buy quality supplies to go with it. You may purchase kits containing most of the supplies you'll need to create a cadmium finish for small projects, or you can buy individual supplies in larger quantities.

I recommend: Brush Plating Specialists sells anodizing or chromate coating and finishes for cadmium plating. SamTech offers cadmium plating kits, which include cadmium concentrate, cadmium anode, a 3 1/2 gallon polypropylene tank, a heater, wires and clips, a 3 1/2 gallon steel tank and more.

Find cadmium plating services

For larger jobs, or when you simply don't want to expose your employees to hazardous materials, hire a company that knows all about cadmium plate. Some will only take on large jobs, while others are better suited to small ones. Most cadmium plating services also offer all the usual finishes for cadmium products, from silver cadmium plating to gold cadmium plating and everything in between.

I recommend: Burbank Plating Service has offered plating services for over 40 years and frequently does commercial cadmium plating. Multichrome/Microplate also offers low embrittlement cadmium plating services. Reliable Plating performs commercial cadmium plating with clear, olive, yellow or black post treatments. Lake City Plating does cadmium plating for businesses with large run jobs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before you work with any cadmium plating specialist, check how long they've been in business and ask for references. It's also a good idea to check out samples of their work, either in person or through photographs online.