With so many impressive benefits on offer, nickel electroplating is used for a diverse variety of applications. This is a process in which a substrate material such as ferrous and non-ferrous metal, and some polymers is coated with thin layers of nickel. It significantly improves the durability, resistance to corrosion, and even the appearance of the original surface.
As you might expect, the technique is a cornerstone of the manufacturing process for many major industries. explores how nickel electroplating is an important process for the aerospace industry. Yet nickel electroplating is also commonly used in applications found much closer to home.
How It Is Achieved
When it comes to nickel electroplating, there are three techniques to choose from: bright nickel plating, electroless nickel plating, and dull nickel plating. Bright nickel plating sees an electric current added to the surface to be coated and creates an attractive shiny finish, whilst dull nickel plating delivers a rather more matt result. Meanwhile, an electroless nickel coating uses an autocatalytic reaction rather than electricity, and offers a very hard finish that is highly resistant to corrosion. Yoy can find out more about these different techniques at specialist sites such as www.poeton.co.uk/standard-treatments/electroless-nickel-plating.
Three Everyday Applications
You are probably never far away from an example of nickel electroplating, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the move. For example, the home is full of components which have undergone the process, including the humble door knob or handle. Using nickel electroplating on the materials commonly used for these parts (such as brass) greatly extends their lifespan, as the coating protects the material from corrosion that would be caused from frequent contact with the natural oils present in our skin. And the plating technique ensures that even tricky irregular shapes get an even coating.
You’ll also find nickel electroplating within the many machines we use every day. Even tiny components such as springs will benefit from such a protective coating, helping them to withstand wear and tear. This makes it the ideal process for treating moving parts.
Your car or van will be sure to feature many components that have benefited from nickel electroplating. From the bumper to the exhaust pipe, car manufacturers use this plating technique to protect the parts that are likely to be subjected to extreme conditions. It also helps to keep components looking at their best.