Comparison of surface treatment processes for connectors (gold plating / tin plating / silver plating)
When selecting a waterproof M16 circular connector, the focus is often on the IP rating and sealing structure. However, one factor that directly impacts connector performance and longevity is the surface treatment of contact pins.
At Connoder, a global manufacturer specializing in circular connectors, we integrate waterproof designs (IP67/IP68) with optimized plating processes to provide high-reliability solutions for industrial, automotive, marine, and renewable energy applications. Learn more about us here.
Why Plating Matters for Waterproof Connectors
Contact resistance, signal integrity, and power delivery can degrade if the plating oxidizes or corrodes.
Waterproof sealing protects against external moisture, but the internal contact surfaces still need protection.
Harsh conditions—temperature cycling, vibration, salt spray—accelerate wear.
The plating material directly impacts connector lifespan and cost efficiency.
Comparison of Plating Options
1. Gold Plating
✔ Excellent corrosion resistance, stable contact resistance, reliable under high mating cycles.
✘ Higher cost, requires nickel underplate for durability.
Best for: High-reliability waterproof connectors in aerospace, medical, and marine systems.
2. Silver Plating
✔ Highest electrical & thermal conductivity, strong for high-current applications.
✘ Prone to tarnishing (sulfur, humidity), can increase resistance over time.
Best for: Power distribution in industrial automation, automotive lighting, and robotics.
3. Tin Plating
✔ Low cost, good solderability, widely available.
✘ Oxidizes quickly, lower durability, risk of fretting corrosion.
Best for: Cost-sensitive applications, less frequent mating cycles, general factory automation.
PLATING ON WATERPROOF
Comparison of Gold Plating/Silver Plating/Tin Plating Processes
The application of M16 circular connectors in outdoor equipment
Application Scenarios for Waterproof M16 Connectors
Outdoor Sensors & IoT Devices: Gold-plated pins ensure stable signals under humidity and temperature shifts.
Industrial Power Systems: Silver-plated connectors handle high currents reliably.
Factory Automation: Tin-plated connectors reduce costs where mating cycles are limited.
Marine & Renewable Energy: Gold over nickel plating ensures corrosion resistance in salt spray and UV-heavy environments.
Connoder’s Approach
At Connoder, we engineer M16 waterproof circular connectors to balance cost, durability, and reliability:
Plating Options: Gold, silver, and tin, including selective plating.
Quality Testing: Salt spray, thermal cycling, and mating cycle validation.
Customization: Solutions tailored for industrial automation, automotive, and renewable energy.
👉 Learn more about our capabilities: Connoder About Us
Conclusion
Conclusion
Gold plating → Best for premium reliability and high-cycle environments.
Silver plating → Best for power applications needing high conductivity.
Tin plating → Best for budget-friendly, general industrial uses.
At Connoder, we offer waterproof M16 circular connectors with customizable plating options, ensuring your project requirements are met with the right balance of performance and cost.
Does plating affect the waterproof seal (IP rating)?
No – as long as the body, gasket, and shell are properly designed. Plating is on the contacts; it's internal. But degraded contact surfaces (from oxidation) can increase resistance, which may degrade overall system reliability.
How thick should the plating be?
Typical gold plating: ~10-50 micro-inches (for contact area). Silver: often thicker because of wear/tarnish. Tin: can be modest, but thicker for durability.
What about tin whiskers?
Tin plating can lead to whisker growth, which is a reliability risk in electronics. For waterproof M16 connectors, ensure proper design, perhaps use alloyed or treated tin, or overlay with nickel, to mitigate.
Can I mix plating types (selective)?
Yes — many designs use gold for the contact mating area, and tin or silver or cheaper finish for the rest (solder tails, non-contact surfaces) to save cost. Connoder offers this type of customization.
M16 6 Pin Circular Connector A-Code Interface, Waterproof Connector Receptacle Cable, Straight, Front-Locking, Unshielded
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M16 6 Pin Circular Connector are ideal for demanding industrial applications such as industrial automation and aerospace, marine, and telecom systems. M16 Circular Connector are available in quick-lock wiring assembly types with IP67 protection and a vibration-resistant screw design.
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