electrolytic nickel plating
electrolytic nickel plating
Electrolytic Nickel
Pure Nickel Deposits for Heat Resistance and Conductivity
Electrolytic Nickel Plating
Advantages of Electrolytic Nickel Plating
Electrolytic vs. Electroless Nickel
The electrolytic and electroless nickel plating methods both serve to deposit nickel on substrates but differ fundamentally in their processes and applications. Electrolytic nickel plating requires an external electrical current to drive the deposition of nickel from an electrolyte solution onto the substrate, making it highly controllable and suitable for achieving varied thicknesses and surface characteristics. This method allows for detailed control over the aesthetics of the finish, offering options from bright to matte.
In contrast, electroless nickel plating does not use an electrical current but instead relies on a chemical reaction to deposit nickel, leading to very uniform thickness even on complex shapes. This makes it ideal for applications requiring consistent coverage over intricate surfaces and excellent corrosion resistance. Electroless plating is typically more expensive due to the chemicals used and is less customizable in terms of finish aesthetics.
Note: Electroless nickel is also an alloy of nickel and phosphorus. While it’s excellent for corrosion resistance, it has poor conductivity. Therefore, if improved conductivity is a requirement, electrolytic nickel should be chosen over electroless nickel plating.
Electrolytic Nickel Highlights
- Pure nickel deposit
- Enhanced conductivity
- High temperature tolerance
- Bright appearance
- Applicable to nearly all base metals
- Non-magnetic
Proven applications
Electrolytic nickel plating has improved the long-term performance of a myriad of components – some include:
- Automotive components
- Turbine blades
- Landing gear
- Decorative items
- Bathroom fixtures
- Electronics
- Heavy machinery
- Defense applications
Test Methods used to Certify Coatings
- AMS 2424
- AMS 2403
- ASTM B689
- ISO 1458
Performance Characteristics
Electrolytic Nickel by the Numbers
- Heat resistant up to 1,832°F (1000°C)
- Deposit range of 0.0002" - 0.003"
- Ductility high enough to meet or exceed AMS 2424
- Average microhardness below 300HV
Electrolytic Nickel
Features & Benefits
Base metal compatibility
Adheres to nearly all ferrous and non-ferrous materials, and provides a low-temperature plating process (<190°F, <88°C)
Pleasing aesthetics
Offers a shiny, appealing finish that enhances the visual quality of the product
Corrosion resistance
Protects the base material from oxidizing and corroding, essential for parts exposed to harsh environments
Increased conductivity
Improves the conductivity of the surface, beneficial for electronic components
Uniform thickness
Allows for precise control over the deposition process, which can achieve uniform thickness across the coated part
High heat tolerance
Withstands post-plate firing temperatures of 1,000°C (1,832°F)
Cost effectiveness
Generally more cost-effective than electroless plating for large production volumes due to faster plating times and less chemical usage
Improved Brazeability
Electrolytic nickel is used on some alloys to improve wettability during the brazing process creating stronger, more durable joints
The Science Behind Electrolytic Nickel
The electrolytic nickel plating process involves several key steps. Initially, the parts to be plated are thoroughly cleaned to remove any contaminants that could interfere with the adhesion of the nickel. The substrate is then immersed in an electrolytic bath containing nickel salts. The part acts as the cathode (negative electrode), and anodes (positive electrodes) made of nickel dissolve into the bath, replenishing the nickel ions.
When an electrical current is passed through the bath, nickel ions gain electrons (are reduced) and deposit onto the cathode surface. The thickness and properties of the nickel layer can be precisely controlled by adjusting the voltage and current, the composition of the electrolyte, the temperature, and the plating time. This control is essential for achieving the desired characteristics and quality of the coating.
Additional Metal Treatments
Services at Armoloy
The Armoloy Corporation is here to provide support for your project, starting from the discovery phase and continuing through a successful production launch. Whether coatings are considered during the initial part design phase or become necessary due to product failures in the field, our team can assist you at any stage in the process.
How Metals Fail
Some of the most common metal failures include:
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