ELECTROLESS NICKEL PLATING
Electroless Nickel Plating
Electroless nickel plating is a process that deposits a nickel-phosphorous alloy onto a metal surface without the need for an externally applied electrical current. This process works through a chemical reduction, where nickel ions in the electroless nickel solution are deposited onto the metallic substrate. Unlike traditional electrolytic nickel plating, which relies on an electrical current, electroless nickel plating avoids issues such as edge buildup and uneven coating. The resulting nickel deposits are highly uniform, offering excellent corrosion and erosion resistance, as well as superior lubricity.
- High Phosphorus (10% to 13%): superior corrosion protection; most resistant to acidic environments; greater than 65 Rc hardness with post-plate thermal treatment
- Medium Phosphorus (5% to 9%): best appearance
- Low Phosphorus (<5%): highest as-plated surface hardness (up to 60 Rc); most resistant to alkaline environments; best solderability
Electroless nickel can also be rendered non-magnetic, making it the optimal choice for electromagnetic shielding. Electroless nickel can be applied over a variety of substrates including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass and many proprietary alloys.
ELECTROLESS NICKEL PLATING CAPABILITIES:
- Plating thicknesses from 0.0001 to 0.0050 inches
- Precision masking for selective surface plating
- Salt spray corrosion testing per ASTM B 117
- Post-plate hydrogen embrittlement relief
- Hardness up to 70Rc (high phosphorous with post-plate bake)
- XRF thickness analysis
APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS:
- MIL-C-26074 MIL-STD-171 (1.4.3) AMS 2404
- MIL-F-14072 (M265) ASTM B733 ASTM B656
- AMS 2405 ISO 4527