Armoloy Specifications
Armoloy Specifications
What is AMS 2404?
Developed by the SAE Aerospace Material Specifications (AMS) Committee, AMS 2404 ensures exceptional wear resistance, corrosion protection, and solderability, even in extreme conditions up to 1000°F (538°C).
AMS 2404 sets a high standard for consistent, high-quality electroless nickel plating. It provides a trusted framework for quality control, compliance, and reliable performance across industries.
The Role of AMS 2404 in Electroless Nickel Plating
AMS 2404 standardizes electroless nickel plating for industries that require durable, precision-coated components across diverse applications. Its role includes:
- Consistency Across Batches: Establishes guidelines for uniform plating processes, delivering repeatable, high-quality results across production runs.
- Corrosion and Wear Resistance: Specifies parameters for creating durable coatings that protect against environmental degradation, friction, and abrasion.
- Precision and Uniformity: Enables even coverage on intricate and irregular surfaces, ensuring predictable functionality.
- Material Versatility: Supports plating on steel, aluminum, copper alloys, and more, expanding design possibilities.
- Stable, High-Performance Components: Reduces plating inconsistencies and ensures that plated components meet operational requirements.
AMS 2404 is crucial in advancing plating technology, supporting industries that require precision-engineered components built for endurance and peak efficiency.
AMS 2404 Testing Methodology & Results
AMS 2404 mandates various tests to comply with its electroless nickel plating specifications:
- Thickness Measured: Verifies coating thickness using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), beta backscatter, or microscopical examination.
- Adhesion Testing: Evaluates the bond strength of the nickel-phosphorus coating to the substrate through thermal cycling or bend tests .
- Corrosion Resistance Testing: Assesses plating resilience using salt spray testing to confirm protection in harsh environments.
- Microhardness Testing (Knoop): Measures hardness to confirm performance, primarily for Class 2 coatings with specific hardness requirements.
- Chemical Composition Analysis: Verifies the amount of phosphorus in the nickel coating to match its specific class and performance needs.
- Thermal Treatments by Class: Tailors heat treatments to enhance coating properties based on specific class requirements:
- Class 1: No post-plating thermal treatment, except hydrogen embrittlement relief when necessary, ensuring basic functionality without altering the coating.
- Class 2: Heat-treated at 450°F (232°C) or higher to improve hardness and wear resistance.
- Class 3: Treated at 375°F (191°C) to enhance adhesion on non-heat-treatable substrates, such as specific aluminum or beryllium alloys.
- Class 4: Special thermal treatment for heat-treatable aluminum alloys to optimize coating adhesion.
- Visual and Surface Inspection: Ensures uniformity, smoothness, and defect-free finishes.
By adhering to these methodologies, the standard ensures electroless nickel coatings meet the demands of critical applications, offering reliable performance in challenging environments.
Industries that Use AMS 2404
AMS 2404 plays a key role in industries that depend on precision coatings for functional performance and long-term stability:
- Aerospace: Protects turbine blades, engine parts, and landing gear from wear and environmental exposure.
- Automotive: Enhances fuel injectors, pistons, and transmission components for efficient operation and extended lifespan.
- Oil and Gas: Strengthens drilling and refining equipment against high temperatures and chemical exposure.
- Medical Devices: Supports biocompatibility and material integrity in surgical tools, implants, and diagnostic instruments.
- Semiconductors: Improves solderability and performance in connectors, circuit boards, and microelectronic components.
AMS 2404 helps industries maintain precise coating quality, optimizing components for specialized applications in demanding environments.
Benefits of Working with an AMS 2404 Provider
Guaranteed Compliance
AMS 2404-certified providers meet stringent plating standards, ensuring components are built to exact specifications
Advanced Process Control
Providers implement refined procedures to ensure uniform and defect-free nickel coatings for all parts
Electroless Nickel Expertise
Certified providers bring expertise in electroless nickel plating, offering tailored solutions for complex requirements
Reliable Performance
Precision application minimizes variability, ensuring consistent performance in critical applications
Comprehensive Testing
Providers conduct rigorous quality checks, such as adhesion and thickness tests, to meet high-performance demands
Adaptable Solutions
Providers tailor coatings to diverse needs, from wear-resistant machinery to precision medical devices
Audit Support
Providers maintain comprehensive records to support compliance, traceability, and customer audits
Global Expertise
Certification aligns with international standards, supporting seamless integration into global supply chains
Specifications at Armoloy
Armoloy offers plating solutions that meet AMS 2404 to support both regulatory compliance and individual project needs. Explore common specifications and accreditations we work with, and contact us to find the right solution for your application.
Disclaimer: The interpretations and overviews of AMS 2404 provided by The Armoloy Corporation are solely the views of Armoloy and may not represent the views of other entities. These interpretations are intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as definitive or legally binding. The Armoloy Corporation is not responsible for the accuracy of these interpretations and expressly disclaims any liability for loss or damage arising from their use. This disclaimer is subject to change and does not create any express or implied warranty regarding the information provided.