Nickel Electroplating Services & Industrial Coatings

What is the nickel plating process like at Electris Coating Systems?

Nickel plating is an electroplating process that is used in many industries, especially in the electric power industry. Its purpose is to improve the parameters of the surface to be treated. A layer of nickel, applied to a component, increases electrical conductivity, improves protection against corrosion, but also improves the strength and aesthetic properties of the electroplated object. Nickeling can also serve as an intermediate layer to improve the adhesion of other electroplated coatings.

At Electris Coating Systems, we carry out the nickel plating process on components made of non-ferrous metals (copper nickel plating, aluminum nickel plating). Our specialty is the nickel plating of busbars.
We offer nickel plating thicknesses as low as 1 μm to 50 μm. Our processes allow us to galvanise components with a maximum length of 2100 mm.

What does the non-ferrous metal nickeling process consist of?

Depending on the geometry and size of the components, they are placed in the plating bath on special racks or in dedicated barrels. The components undergoing this process are first carefully prepared - thoroughly cleaned and degreased, and then they are subjected to etching and decapping (removal of oxides and rust from the surface of the workpiece). Once the surface of the products is well cleaned and rinsed, the components are immersed in baths of electrolyte containing nickel salts. By introducing an electric current, the nickel ion is reduced and deposited on the copper or aluminium surface. The thickness of the nickel layer depends on the coating time of the parts and the electric current density used.

Advantages of the nickel coating services in Electris factory

High resistance to corrosion and oxidation.
Good thermal conductivity and resistance to high temperatures.
Hardening of coated surfaces - nickel is characterized by high hardness and is resistant to abrasion, which is beneficial for components exposed to high mechanical loads.
Stabilises conductivity in the long term - although nickel has lower conductivity than copper, its resistance to oxidation means that nickel-coated contacts retain stable electrical parameters for many years without any deterioration in connection quality.
Excellent bond strength to the base metal - electrolytic nickel plating ensures strong adhesion to coated surfaces.
Visual and aesthetic improvement of the parts treated - electrolytic nickel plating gives the metal surface an elegant, shiny appearance.
Solderability and weldability - further processing of the electrolytically nickel-plated component, such as: soldering or welding, is very easy.

Based on the documentation, we will transform your needs into a finished metal product.

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Nickel Plating Services on Aluminum Parts

Nickel plating enhances the durability of aluminum components, making them ideal for high-performance environments. At Electris, we specialize in applying uniform nickel coatings to aluminum alloys, including busbars, ensuring long-lasting protection against oxidation, improved heat resistance, and superior mechanical strength for demanding industrial applications.

Nickel Plating Services on Copper Parts

Nickel plating on copper improves surface hardness, protects against corrosion, and ensures excellent adhesion for further processing. Whether used in electrical connectors, conductive rails, or power system components, our copper nickel-plating services deliver consistent quality, enhanced performance.

Nickel Plating Services on non-ferrous metals components

Electris provides nickel plating for the non-ferrous metals. From precision mechanical parts to custom industrial elements, our process enhances abrasion resistance and surface finish—tailored to the geometry and purpose of each component. Contact us for tailored plating solutions.

Nickel Plating Methods

There are several nickel plating methods, each selected according to the component type and application. Electrolytic nickel plating is the most common, producing durable and uniform coatings with excellent adhesion to copper and aluminum substrates. Bright nickel plating ensures an aesthetic, shiny finish often used for decorative purposes, while semi-bright nickel plating provides ductility and low internal stress, making it suitable as an undercoat for multi-layer systems. In addition, sulfamate nickel plating delivers low-stress, high-purity coatings ideal for precision engineering, and electroless nickel plating (chemical, without current) provides uniform coverage even on complex geometries. At Electris, we tailor the method to the geometry, function, and performance requirements of each part.

Nickel Plating Specifications

At Electris Coating Systems, we offer nickel coatings with a thickness ranging from 1 μm to 50 μm, depending on customer requirements. Our modern production line enables nickel plating of parts up to 2100 mm in length, ensuring consistent results for both small precision components and large busbars. Each process is carefully monitored – from bath composition and current density to temperature and time – guaranteeing uniformity and repeatability of coatings. All coatings undergo laboratory testing for adhesion, hardness, thickness, and corrosion resistance, ensuring full compliance with international quality standards.

Industries That Benefit from Nickel Plating Services

Nickel plating is widely used across multiple industries thanks to its durability, protective properties, and conductivity:

Power and energy sector – nickel coatings stabilize conductivity in busbars, connectors, and switchgear, even in harsh environments.
Automotive industry – used on battery parts, fasteners, and mechanical components exposed to heat and wear.
Electronics – protects copper and aluminum contacts, terminals, and PCBs while maintaining solderability.
Aerospace and defense – nickel coatings resist oxidation and abrasion in extreme conditions.

This versatility makes nickel plating a critical process for both heavy industry and advanced technologies.

Properties of Nickel

Nickel is a metal with a combination of mechanical and chemical properties that make it highly valuable in electroplating. It is characterized by:

High hardness and abrasion resistance, protecting components under heavy mechanical loads.
Excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance, even in aggressive environments or at elevated temperatures.
Good adhesion to non-ferrous metals such as copper and aluminum, ensuring strong bonding and long-term durability.
Compatibility with further processing, as nickel-plated surfaces can be easily soldered, welded, painted, or coated with other metals.

Thanks to these properties, nickel plating not only extends the service life of components but also enhances their performance in demanding applications.