get a quote

Electroless Nickel Plating at DEK

DEK offers electroless nickel plating’s adjustable hardness levels, can be engineered to be non-magnetic, adheres tightly to substrates, and the thickness is precisely controllable.

Get an accurate quote
Electroless Nickel Plating(1)

introduction

Uniform Coating with Electroless Nickel Plating

This coating can be applied on complex shapes and internal surfaces, including holes and recesses. This uniformity is often challenging to achieve with other plating methods.

DEK uses cutting-edge technology and a highly skilled team that makes precise, uniform coatings on even the most intricate and complex components. Our commitment to quality is evident in our corrosion-resistant electroless nickel plating, which protects components even in challenging environments. DEK customizes coatings for clients, adjusting thickness and properties to meet specific needs. We ensure the reliability and durability of plated components through strict quality control. Our innovative plating processes adhere to high standards, delivering components that perform well and last.

request a quote

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW

More About Electroless Nickel Plating

What’s Electroless Nickel Plating?

Electroless nickel plating is a process that deposits a nickel alloy onto a surface without using an external electric current. The substrate, often a metal or plastic object, undergoes a preparation phase, including cleaning and activation.

During activation, the surface is treated to create sites for nickel deposition. The activated substrate is then immersed in a plating bath containing a solution of nickel salts and reducing agents. Unlike traditional electroplating, this process is autocatalytic, meaning the deposited nickel catalyzes further deposition until the desired thickness is achieved. Post-treatment processes, such as rinsing and passivation, may follow to enhance coating properties.

Advantages of Electroless Nickel Plating

Corrosion resistance

Uniform coating thickness

Complex shape coverage

Improved hardness

Wear resistance

Solderability

Lubricity

Chemical resistance

Low porosity

Cost-effectiveness

Design Considerations for Electroless Nickel Plating

Choose a suitable material like steel, aluminum, or plastic for electroless nickel plating.

Clean the substrate thoroughly to remove dirt, oxides, and oils.

Use palladium chloride to improve bonding between the substrate and nickel coating.

Consider the desired appearance and smoothness of the coating.

Ensure uniform coating in complex shapes and features.

Plan to mask areas not meant for plating.

Decide on the desired thickness and adjust the plating parameters accordingly.

Understand and maintain the chemical makeup of the plating bath.

Consider any additional treatments needed after plating.

Implement tests for adhesion, hardness, and corrosion resistance.

Ensure proper waste disposal and comply with environmental regulations.

FAQ

Electroless Nickel Plating FAQ

Electroless nickel plating can vary in cost depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the part, the volume of parts being plated, and the specific requirements of the plating process. Generally, electroless nickel plating is considered a cost-effective solution due to its ability to provide uniform coating on complex shapes, reducing the need for secondary operations.
Electroless nickel plating can be applied to a wide range of metals, including steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and various alloys.
Electroless nickel plating typically exhibits a silver to a light gray color. The exact hue can vary based on the specific formulation of the plating bath and the composition of the substrate material. The appearance can also be influenced by post-plating treatments or coatings.
The thickness of electroless nickel plating can be controlled during the plating process, and it can range from a few microns to several tens of microns. The desired thickness is often specified based on the intended application and the protective or functional requirements of the coating.
Electroless nickel plating has excellent durability and corrosion resistance. The coating provides a uniform layer, even on complex geometries, offering protection against wear, abrasion, and environmental factors.

Get An Accurate Quote For Your Next Projects

No matter your project is complicated or simple, no matter is metal or plastic, you will get an accurate quotation within 6 hours.

Get A Quote Today