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MICRON - Electroless Nickel Plating Guide

Guide to Electroless Nickel Plating for Designers and Mechanical Workshops

Introduction

What is Electroless Nickel Plating?

View during the treatment phase
View during the treatment phase

Electroless nickel plating is a sophisticated metal coating process that provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. It is ideal for precision mechanical components with complex geometries.

Electroless Nickel Plating Process

The treatment is based on immersing the components in a nickel solution, without using an electric current. This ensures a uniform and calibrated deposit of nickel-phosphorus on the component's surface, providing:

  • Uniformity: A uniform coating, perfect for tight tolerances and complex geometries.
  • Penetration to Internal Surfaces: Internal surfaces such as cylinders, ducts, and fluid distributors are also protected.
  • Technical Applications: Improves hardness, wear and corrosion resistance, and reduces the friction coefficient.

Differences from Nickel Electroplating

Unlike traditional electroplating processes, such as chrome or nickel electroplating, electroless nickel plating does not require electric current, using an autocatalytic reaction:

  • Uniformity: Calibrated thicknesses on all surfaces, including internal surfaces and those with complex geometries.
  • Applications: While nickel electroplating is primarily used for decorative scopes, electroless nickel plating is selected for its superior technical characteristics.

In short, electroless nickel plating is a versatile and highly effective coating, providing an ideal solution that is suitable for a wide range of industrial and mechanical applications.