Method and apparatus for continuously applying nanolaminate metal coatings

An apparatus for electrodepositing a nanolaminate coating, comprising:

• an electrodeposition cell for use with a conductive workpiece, the electrodeposition cell being configured for movement of the conductive workpiece therethrough at a rate;
• an electrolyte in the electrodeposition cell, the electrolyte comprising salts of two or more electrodepositable metals;
• a rate control mechanism operable to control the rate at which the conductive workpiece moves through the electrodeposition cell;
• an electrode;
• and
• a power supply configured to control a current density applied to the conductive workpiece in a time varying manner as it moves through the electrodeposition cell, wherein controlling the current density in a time varying manner comprises repeatedly applying three or more different current densities to the conductive workpiece as it moves through the electrodeposition cell, the power supply further configured to apply an offset current to the conductive workpiece so that the conductive workpiece remains cathodic when it is moved through the electrodeposition cell and the electrode remains anodic.