Nickel plating (nickel electrodeposition) remains one of the world’s oldest form of electrodeposition. It has been around for centuries. Used to make baser metals more attractive or to add a protective layer, a nickel coating remained common in earlier societies. In fact, the method has remained relatively intact until the 1920s. At this point, companies adopted a less toxic means of producing their products using this method.
What Is the Appeal of Nickel Plating?
Every year, nickel plating continues on a rather large scale. Statistics indicate that around 150,000 tons of nickel is deposited annually. Recipients of the process are the following substrates:
- Brass
- Copper
- Molybdenum
- Steel
- Uranium
- Zinc – though not without a copper plating first
Why do companies select nickel? Why does nickel plating appeal to so many industrial producers. There are several reasons.
Manufacturers choose nickel plating because of the properties it provides. They know it offers:
- Improved resistance to wear and tear: It enhances the durability and stability of the substrate
- Increased Endurance against heat
- Better ability to resist corrosion
- Enhanced finish: Bright and satin finish nickel plating produce a surface that is very appealing
- Improved ductility: The ability to flex and bend
The process also is attractive. During nickel plating, the operators know the metal will flow consistently and uniformly over the entire surface of the substrate. Overall, manufacturers and operators find nickel electroplating to be an excellent combination of the functional and esthetic. This makes it versatile in many ways – easily chosen by diverse companies for finishing their products.
Applications for Nickel Plating
Nickel plating is multipurpose. It has firmly established a place in many industries. Some request it for its decorative appeal. The majority, however, prefers its ability to provide the component with protective properties. Among the industries that utilize nickel electroplating today are:
- Automotive industry
- Bicycle production
- Hardware items
- Household appliances – for both appearance and functionality
- Jewelry production
- Marine industries
- Plumbing fittings
- Shop fittings
From appliances to shop fittings, nickel plating satisfies the need for both decorative and functional uses.
Nickel Plating
While it is more common to think about electroless nickel plating, companies should not rule out nickel electroplating. While both methods render excellent results, the results of electrodepositing truly add a brilliant luster to many components. In fact, the use of nickel is certain to produce positive results. Its versatile nature, protective properties, attractive appearance and cost-effectiveness, are several reasons that make nickel plating increasingly popular with manufacturers.
