A leader in copper and aluminum processing in Europe. Check us out:

What is Nickel Plating and What Benefits Does It Offer?

What is Nickel Plating

To improve the properties and characteristics of metal objects or to protect them from numerous threats, various electroplating processes are employed.

As a result, a durable coating is created on the surface of a component, which can protect against corrosion, enhance wear resistance, or improve electrical conductivity in the coated area. One of the commonly used electroplating processes is nickel plating. What does this process entail, and what benefits does it provide?

electrolytic nickel plating

What is electrolytic nickel plating?

Nickel plating is an electrolytic process in which a thin layer of nickel is deposited onto a metal surface. It can be used both as a finishing process and a base for other coatings, such as chrome. Due to the many benefits it offers, nickel plating is utilised across various sectors, including the electrical energy industry.

How is nickel plating performed? Initially, the metal components must be properly prepared—they are cleaned and degreased, followed by treatments such as etching and pickling, which help remove oxides and rust from their surfaces. The details are then placed in baths containing an electrolyte solution with nickel salts. By introducing an electric current, nickel ions are reduced and deposited onto the metal surface. Different layer thicknesses can be achieved, depending on the duration of the plating process and the applied current density.

What is the purpose of nickel plating?

The primary aim of nickel plating is to enhance the parameters, functional properties, and appearance of metal components. The resulting coating is characterised by high corrosion resistance, hardness, and an aesthetically pleasing shine. The properties of nickel plating may vary based on the process used and the conditions of use.

nickel plated

What can be nickel plated?

Electrolytic nickel plating can be performed on various materials, predominantly metals. Coating a component with nickel provides better corrosion protection and improves the durability and appearance of the plated item. The most common applications include:

  • Nickel plating of steel: To ensure greater resistance to corrosion, wear, and aggressive environments. Nickel is renowned for its excellent resistance to oxidation and rust.
  • Nickel plating of cast Iron: To protect against corrosion and enhance the strength of components used, for instance, in machinery or tools.
  • Nickel plating of copper: To increase chemical and mechanical resistance (e.g., to abrasion) or improve aesthetics.
  • Nickel plating of aluminium: To heighten corrosion and wear resistance and achieve better adhesion for subsequent electroplated layers (e.g., chrome).
  • Nickel plating of zinc: To offer corrosion protection and enhance the appearance of components.

Interestingly, nickel coatings can also be applied to plastics, composite surfaces, and ceramics.

benefits of nickel plating

What are the benefits of nickel plating?

Nickel plating processes are carried out for various reasons, depending on technical and aesthetic requirements. The main benefits include:

  • Increased corrosion and oxidation resistance: The nickel coating creates a protective barrier that safeguards the metal component not only from moisture but also from chemicals.
  • Good thermal stability of nickel coatings.
  • Surface hardening: Nickel possesses high hardness and wear resistance, making it suitable for components subjected to significant mechanical loads.
  • Enhanced electrical conductivity: As a result, components subjected to this galvanic process find applications in the electrical energy sector.
  • Improved aesthetics: Nickel plating gives the metal surface an elegant, shiny appearance.
  • Excellent adhesion strength: Nickel plating ensures strong adherence to the surfaces being coated.
  • Solderability and weldability: Nickel plating significantly facilitates further processing of the component (e.g., soldering or welding).
  • Further processing: Nickel-plated surfaces are also well suited for painting or applying other coatings, which is beneficial for products requiring additional protection or decorative finishes.

All of these advantages of electrolytic nickel plating make it applicable in numerous industries, such as automotive, energy, electronics, defence, jewellery, medical, and even aviation.

In the energy sector, nickel plating is widely used for components that need to withstand the effects of environmental conditions and chemicals. Examples of such elements include pipes, tanks, and fastening parts.

Professional nickel electroplating services

Nickel plating vs. chrome plating – what are the differences?

Nickel plating and chrome plating are both very popular electroplating processes. However, in the latter case, a thin layer of chrome is applied to the metal surface, aiming to enhance the mechanical properties and aesthetics while increasing the wear resistance of the treated component.

Which is better: chrome plating or nickel plating? Both solutions provide excellent results, and the choice of method primarily depends on the user’s functional and aesthetic needs.

Electris – Professional nickel electroplating services

At Electris, we offer electrolytic nickel plating on components made from copper and aluminium alloys. Thanks to advanced technologies and extensive experience, we can carry out each process efficiently and effectively, offering clients various nickel plating thicknesses—from 1 μm to 50 μm.

We approach every order with a fully individualised perspective, executing it based on the client's documentation. Please contact us via email at sales@electris.pl, and we will transform your needs into a finished product.

FAQ: What is Nickel Plating and What Benefits Does It Offer?

What is nickel electroplating and what does it involve?
What can be nickel plated?
What are the benefits of nickel plating?