Nickel Plating (Electroplating)

Nickel plating, also known as nickel electroplating, involves the use of electrical current to deposit a thin layer of nickel onto the conductive surface of a product or component. It is often used to enhance the corrosion resistance, temperature resistance, and overall appearance of materials, and is available in a variety of finishes, depending on the needs of the final product.

New Method Plating Company, a family-owned and operated plating service provider, has offered quality plating services to our loyal customers in and around New England for almost 80 years. As an industry-leading plater, we pride ourselves on providing specialty plating services for customers in a wide range of industries. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our industry-standard certifications, including:

• ISO 9001:2015
• AS9100
• Nadcap AS7108
• Mil-Spec: AMS QQ-N-290 and AMS 2403

Benefits of Nickel Electroplating

Nickel electroplating is an excellent way to add or enhance properties in a variety of base materials. Some unique benefits include:

• Enhanced Corrosion Resistance. Nickel plating enhances resistance to a variety of corrosive materials, including alkali, saltwater and brine, petroleum, hydrocarbons, solvents, ammonia, acids, and other harsh chem
• Resistance to Outdoor Elements. Nickel plating enhances the ability to resist UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, moisture, and other harsh conditions.
• Improved Conductivity. Nickel plating improves conductivity in electronics applications and electrical components.
• High Hardness and Material Stability.Nickel plating fills potential holes and cracks and stabilizes the material overall.
• Improved Tensile Strength. The nickel plating process enhances tensile strength of the overall plated material.
• Enhanced Wear Resistance. Nickel plating improves wear resistance, making it ideal for high-performance applications and harsh conditions.
• Improved Ductility. Nickel plating enhances ductility, allowing the component to be shaped, formed, and finished without cracking.
• Even Coating. Volume and thickness of the nickel coating can be adjusted to ensure an even coating.
• Finished Appearance. Nickel plating can be modified to create a bright, semi-bright, or matte

Applications of Nickel Plating

The many advantages of nickel plating make it ideal for use in a number of applications and industries. Some of the most common applications include:

Minting Coins

The enhanced ductility of nickel-plated components allows them to accept detailed impressions with high definition that will remain clear with heavy, long-term use. It is also a low-cost process and offers an attractive finish.

Automotive

Nickel plating’s high resistance to temperature, corrosion, and wear, coupled with its thin deposit thickness makes it ideal for use in automotive applications. It is used as a protective and strengthening layer over plastic and aluminum components, including hydraulic and engine shafts, bolts, fasteners, and brake components.

Plastic Plating

Plastic components that benefit from the durability, resistance, and attractive surface finish of nickel plating include automotive components, construction hardware and fastenings, bathroom and kitchen taps, electronics, and other consumer products.

Aerospace

In the aerospace industry, nickel plating provides durable, lightweight coverage that can be applied in a uniform fashion on even extremely detailed or complex components.

Electronics

Nickel plating creates a highly conductive surface, corrosion resistance, and solderability that make it perfect for use in electronic components, including PCB circuits, microprocessors, and connectors.

Types Of Nickel Plating and How It Works

There are three standard types of nickel plating, each of which is useful for particular applications:

• Bright Nickel Plating.Provides a smooth, level, and very glossy finish typically valued for its decorative appearance and corrosion resistance.
• Semi-Bright Nickel Plating. Provides aless bright finish with high ductility, corrosion-resistance, and electrical conductivity, making it ideal for engineering and building applications.
• Dull Nickel Plating.Dull nickel plating is the least bright finish, with high resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and wear, making it perfect for engineering applications.

Nickel electroplating can only be performed on electrically conductive materials. The substrate material is connected to a power supply to create a negative charge. A nickel rod is attached to the positive end of the same power source, and the substrate and nickel rod are submerged in a bath of nickel chloride salt and water. The electric current facilitates an ion exchange between negative chloride anions and oxidized nickel ions. The nickel ions are attracted to the charged substrate, creating a uniform layer around the submerged material.

Superior Nickel Plating Services From New Method Plating

At New Method Plating, we are dedicated to providing only the highest quality nickel plating services to our customers in New England and beyond. With more than 80 years of experience, we have the knowledge and equipment necessary to ensure that you receive quality products that meet and exceed industry standards and even the most stringent specifications. To learn more about our superior nickel plating services and products, contact our experts today or request a quote.