The technique of nickel plating is also known as nickel electroplating, and it has a wide variety of commercial applications.
The process of nickel plating involves electrolytically depositing a layer on a metal surface.
However, there is also the process of electroless nickel plating which is an auto-catalytic reaction where you deposit the coating onto a substrate. There’s no need for an electric current as in nickel electroplating. Electroless nickel plating is more advantageous in the sense that it’s free from power supply issues and flux density. It’s also ideal in preventing corrosion and wear.
The result of both forms of nickel plating is usually a very smooth surface that’s also dull gray in its appearance.
Additionally, there are also other processes of nickel plating like:
Bright nickel plating – a form of nickel electroplating where bright nickel is used. The result is a smooth and remarkably leveled glossy surface. It offers good conductivity but not enough corrosion resistance.
Zinc-nickel plating – is a combination of zinc and nickel in this form of plating. It offers excellent corrosion resistance and creates an excellent base for painting or other types of coating.
First of all, nickel layers are easily applied to several common metals and alloys like copper and copper alloys, aluminum, mild steels, titanium, hardened steel, stainless steel, brass, zinc die-cast, and plastic.
Some of these materials require special treatment before performing the nickel plating. Also, before plating, the product needs to be free of grease, scale, oxide, and oil.
The uses usually depend on the type of nickel involved.
When it comes to more specific uses, nickel plating is usually applied as a base plating layer because of its excellent adhesion properties with other materials. Nickel plating is used in:
Nickel Plated fasteners have a layer of Nickel applied to their surfaces. The coating serves several purposes: