What is an Art Electroplated Sink?

Art electroplated sinks are ceramic basins decorated by an electroplated finish that imparts to them a luxurious, mirror-like appearance and feel and a modern and streamlined look. They present the glamour and toughness of ceramics coupled with the sheen and freshness of metal finishes such as chrome, nickel, or copper.

Electroplated ceramic sinks are found in more and more high-end residences, hotels, and businesses, as a high-level focal point for contemporary bathroom decor. Let us reveal the process of making them, quality control, most common issues, upkeep, and why they’re at the height of luxury.

Production Process of Electroplated Sinks

Surface Treatment of the Ceramic Substrate

The success of electroplating begins with a clean and smooth ceramic surface:

• Degreasing: Soak the sink in an alkaline degreaser for 10–15 minutes to remove oils.
• Water Rinse: Thoroughly rinse with water to eliminate all residues.
• Acid Rinse: Immerse in a 10% dilute hydrochloric acid solution for 1–2 minutes to remove oxidation and activate the surface.
• Second Rinse: Rinse again until neutral (confirmed using pH paper).

Electroplating Process

• The basin (cathode) is suspended in the plating bath.
• Connect the cathode and anode (usually lead or stainless steel plates) to a power supply.
• Current Density: Typically 15–30 A/dm².
• Plating Time: Around 5–20 minutes, depending on the desired thickness (0.1–0.3μm).
• Stirring and temperature control are essential to ensure even plating.

Post-Treatment

• Rinsing & Drying: Rinse with deionized water and dry with hot air.
• Passivation: A chromate treatment enhances corrosion resistance.
• Polishing: Buff with a polishing paste for a high-gloss mirror effect.

Quality Inspection & Finishing

To ensure durability and performance, several tests are conducted:

• Thermal Shock Test: Flash heating to 150°C, followed by rapid cooling, checks for cracking or flaking.
• Tape Test: 3M tape is stuck and peeled off to check adhesion.
• Salt Spray Test: Exposure to a 5% NaCl solution for 48 hours tests for corrosion resistance.
• Installation Considerations: Faucet and drain holes must be drilled with a diamond bit in order to prevent edge damage.

Common Problems and Solutions

Blistering or peeling off of the plating

Cause: The surface of the substrate is not cleaned or the current is too high.
Solution: Repolish the substrate and reduce the current density.

The plating layer is dark or has spots

• Reason: too much impurity in plating solution or abnormal pH value.
• Solution: Filter the plating solution and adjust the acid concentration.

The thick plating layer at the edge

• Cause: Uneven current distribution (high current density at the edge).
• Solution: Use auxiliary anode or shield the non-plating area.

Maintenance Tips for Electroplated Sinks

Avoid harsh chemicals: Use neutral cleaners; no acids or alkalis.
Polish regularly: Car wax or mild polish helps prevent oxidation.
Minor scratches: Can be re-polished and coated with a clear protective lacquer.

A Blending of Technology and Creativity

Electroplated ceramic basins are a bathroom technology revolution—beautiful ceramic artistry blended with high-tech metal-finishing technology. More complex and costly than the typical ceramic basin, they offer unrivaled style, durability, and visual drama.

From a luxury residence to a five-star hotel or stylish commercial building, electroplated sinks are an elegant centerpiece.

Why Hanyu Electroplated Sinks?

As a leading-class ceramic sink producer, Hanyu exports wholesale and custom electroplated sinks. With innovation, craftsmanship, and surface treatment technology as drivers, Hanyu offers premium ceramic basins with impeccable finishes. From chrome and nickel to unique copper tones, Hanyu electroplated sinks are a choice by architects and designers worldwide for upscale bathroom projects.