Tin is a common silvery coloured metal which is obtained from a mineral called cassiterite. It is produced most commonly by China, though often in Indonesia and Peru do their fair share in world its production, too. Tin has many uses and is one of the preferred metals due to its multifunctional characteristics. It is malleable, ductile and does not easily oxidise when in contact with air. Due to these qualities, tin is therefore great for soldering and tin plating.
Tin for Tin Plating
Tin is used for plating and this is a process of coating another metal. This other metal is often something like iron or steel, which the tin coats in order to create a corrosion resistant and rust free finish which is also lightweight. The most common use for tinplate is for roofing and sometimes walling. The term ‘terneplate’ specifically refers to iron or steel which has been tin plated but which has also has lead added to it for extra durability.
Where did Tin Plating come from?
Tin plating originated in the 1800s, when tin cans were first used in order to preserve food. They were quickly seen as being appropriate for this use because they did not erode or corrode when left for long periods of time. Today, tinplate accounts for approximately 17% of tin consumption.
What are the Advantages of Tin Plating?
- Transformable without any cracking
- Enhances the performance and durability of the component
- Extremely resistant to any corrosion
- Extremely resistant to any tarnishing
- Good conductor of electricity
- Usable across a number of industries
- Not easily oxidized in air
- Typically non-toxic