Nickel is a popular plating material largely because of its ability to provide strength.
It is unique in that it provides a visually appealing finish as well as a protective layer, and the plating process is used for many everyday items.
Nickel-Plated Parts
Car parts are frequently subject to the nickel-plating process. It gives them protection from corrosion as well as protection from exposure to extremely high and low temperatures. Car bumpers and exhaust pipes can also be plated to add aesthetic value, as the plating give a bright shiny finish whilst hiding polishing lines.
Door handles are prone to wear, tear and signs of corrosion due to the constant exposure to oils from the skin on the hands. Nickel plating is used to protect them whilst ensuring a pleasing finish. Nickel plating works well with the varying shapes of both door knobs and handles alike.
Machine parts are often nickel-plated to give them strength and prevent them from corroding. Unlike with car parts, a dull matte nickel plating is used. This offers heightened anti-corrosive properties and can be used under gold plating. It is a malleable finish.
Electroless Nickel Plating
Electroless nickel coating is a purely chemical process, resulting in a nickel coating that consists of alloyed nickel between 4% and 14% phosphorus. Parts for coating are placed in a solution that stands at a temperature of 90 degrees Celsius and contains reducing agents and nickel salts. This gives an evenly distributed coating, even on areas that are difficult to reach.
Expert providers of electroless nickel coating such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/plating/electroless-nickel-plating can give specialist advice on product options and complete nickel plating projects, even on an industrial scale.
Electroless nickel plating is available in low, medium, medium graded and high phosphorus options, which give differing levels of strength and finish. A specialist can advise on which is most suitable for any project.