Not every coating is suitable for every job – here are some examples of when we would recommend the use of Electroless Nickel Plating over other coating processes.
Complex or Irregular Shapes
Even small parts with deep recesses, blind holes or other complex geometries can be coated with uniform thickness with Electroless Nickel Plating. This is because the coating process is a chemical reaction, as opposed to an electro-chemical process, and thus coating thickness is even on all surfaces, including within holes and recesses. This uniform coating thickness is difficult to achieve with electroplating.
Tight Engineering Tolerances
Another consideration is that of precise engineering tolerances. The coating may be slightly thicker than desired but this can be taken into account during design. For example, a buildup of 5 to 25 microns is typical for Electroless Nickel Plating.
Internal Surfaces and Tubes
On the other hand, plating the inside of tubes, housings, etc. by conventional electroplating often requires the insertion of electrodes into the tube and hopes for even coverage. The solution for electroless nickel plating, on the other hand, permeates the internal surfaces of the part naturally.
Corrosion or Wear Resistance Without Extra Steps
The coating deposited during the Electroless Nickel Plating process has inherent corrosion resistance, in addition to its surface hardness. Some specifications require the post-plate heat treatment to increase the surface hardness but for most applications the as-plated coating provides an adequate wear resistant surface.
Regulated Working Environments
Please note that for processes involving nickel plating (including surface coating) there are set limits for nickel compounds in the working environment, as defined by HSE. More on Electroless Nickel Plating can be found at www.swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/electroless-nickel-plating/.
Matching a process with a job saves time and minimises rework in production.