Electroplater

OFO No: 712201

Other names for Electroplater:

What is an Electroplater?

A thin layer of metal-solution is applied to the object then, using an electric current – the metal is then ‘fixed’ (made to stick) to the object.

Metals which are used in electroplating include:

• Copper
• Zinc
• Chromium
• Gold & silver

Reasons items are electroplated:

• Decoration
• Protection

Industries that could use electroplating:

• Jewellery
• Auto
• Electronic
• Metal furniture etc

What does an Electroplater do?

• checks specifications from client
• calculates and writes up quotations
• cleans the object that is going to be electroplated
• applies special solutions to object
• uses electrical electroplating equipment to electroplate the object
• inspects and maintains equipment so it’s in good working order
• keeps detailed records

Are you … ?

• good at mathematics and science?
• interested in chemistry?
• good with your hands?
• a person with good eyesight?
• a person with steady hands?
• accurate?
• good with colour?
• good at communication? (reading and writing)
• safety conscious?

How do I become an Electroplater?

INFORMAL

You can teach yourself or learn from someone who is already qualified.

If you learn the trade in a specific company you will be able to work for THAT company or kind of company.

Example: If you learn the trade in a Electroplating company – you can only work on electroplating. Working in a different electrical field may be difficult.

FORMAL FET (TVET) TRAINING

If you get certified at an FET (TVET) college in Electrical Engineering (light) or Electronics Engineering – you will be able to fix almost any kind of electrical machine in any business.

These qualifications will give you more job options when you qualify.  You would add the Electroplating skills and knowledge to your certificatation

To study these at an FET (TVET) college, you will need Maths and Physical Science.

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Manufacturing of Surface Coatings NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Metals Processing NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• National Certificate: Engineering Studies: N1, N2 and N3
• These can be done at a lot of TVET (FET) colleges. Check out your local one to see what they offer.
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

PATH 5

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Bricklayer without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

SAMFA: SOUTH AFRICAN METAL FINISHING ASSOCIATION

• Regularly offers electroplating courses:  Check here.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Boilermaker … or … Tool, Jig an Die-Maker

Is becoming a Electroplater the right career choice for me?