Electrolytic Processing
Electrolytic processing is a group of metal processing and engineering techniques that involve the use of electricity to shape, refine, and modify the surface and composition of metals. The result is a metal composition that has greater longevity and corrosion resistance, as well as improved mechanical, physical, or electrical properties. This process has been widely used in industrial manufacturing and in artisanal metalworking and sculpture.
Electrolytic processing can be used to increase the strength of metals, reduce fatigue, decrease wear, and increase the overall durability of a metal component. This is done by removing metal oxides, enhancing the surface texture, and increasing the surface area. In most cases, it is more cost-effective and time-efficient than comparable process like grinding and hardening.
One of the common uses of electrolytic processing is for hardening and strengthening metals, such as copper and aluminum. In these processes, a current is applied to a metal which causes the atoms to form a protective oxide layer which hardens and strengthens the metal. This oxide layer also provides a layer of corrosion protection which helps to extend the life of the metal.
Electrolytic processing is also used to produce weldable materials from metal powders, such as titanium. In this process, the metal powder is placed in an electrolyte solution and a current is applied to it. This causes the metal particles to fuse together, creating a powerful bond. The resulting material is highly resistant to corrosion and has excellent electrical properties.
One of the other major uses of electrolytic processing is for cleaning and polishing metals. In this process, a current is applied to a metal which causes the surface of the metal to become smooth and glossy. This increases the visual appeal of the metal and makes it easier to work with. Additionally, the cleansed and polished surface can also improve the reflectivity of the metal, allowing it to better diffuse or reflect light.
Electrolytic processing can also be used to improve the electrical and thermal characteristics of metals. This is done through either electroplating or electropolishing. In both cases, the electrical conductivity of the metal is enhanced by increasing the number of atoms available for conduction. The thermal conductivity of the metal is improved by increasing the number of pathways for heat to travel. Additionally, electroplating can be used to improve the wear and tear resistance of metals while electropolishing can be used to clean and polish the surface of a metal.
The electrolytic processing techniques described above have a wide range of uses in both industrial and artisanal metalworking. By using electricity to shape, refine, and strengthen metals, manufacturers and artists have been able to create stronger and more durable metal components with improved visual and electrical properties. This makes electrolytic processing an indispensable tool for modern metalworking.
