Common Applications of Nickel Electroplating

Nickel electroplating serves a variety of practical and aesthetic purposes. From a practical standpoint, nickel plating can help protect against corrosion and improve wear resistance, as well as increase the thickness of a surface. Nickel can enhance the appearance of an object by adding brightness. Nickel plating is often used to create a base layer for gold or silver.

image of black electrolitic nickel

Nickel is sometimes alloyed with zinc or palladium. When combined with zinc, nickel provides greater corrosion protection than zinc can offer on its own. A palladium-nickel alloy results in reduced deposit stress and lowers the risk of cracking caused by extended wear.

Common Nickel Electroplating Applications

Nickel plating is used in a wide variety of industrial applications. Engineering nickel plating, which achieves a matte finish since aesthetic appeal is less important, is used frequently in the consumer electronics, chemical, computer and telecommunications industries. Decorative nickel plating, which typically includes the use of chromium additives to increase brightness, is often used to improve the appearance of exterior auto parts, such as grills and bumpers. Nickel electroforming, in which nickel is deposited onto a mandrel or mold in a non-adhesive manner, is commonly used in the aerospace, textile and communication industries.

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SPC Nickel Electroplating Types

Sharretts Plating Company offers sulfate and sulfamate nickel plating. Sulfate nickel plating provides a very bright finish, although it is less durable and provides a lower level of thickness. Sulfamate nickel electroplating offers superior strength and lower overall material stress.

Regardless of which nickel electroplating process you select, your company will benefit from superior quality developed over more than 80 years in the plating and metal finishing business. We’ll help you improve operating efficiency through lower costs and improved quality, which will also enhance your competitive position. To learn more about nickel electroplating or to receive a free quote, Contact the plating experts at SPC today!

In addition to nickel electroplating, we also offer other nickel coating services. Learn more about electroless nickel coating services from SPC.

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