Nickel Plating

Electroless Nickel Plating

Electroless nickel plating is a method that facilitates the deposition of a nickel alloy onto a metal surface through a chemical reaction. Unlike traditional nickel electroplating, this technique does not require an external power source for the deposition process.

The electroless nickel process provides considerable benefits for plating components with complex geometries, ensuring that internal corners and cavities receive an adequate coating thickness while avoiding excessive accumulation on external edges.

Applying an electroless nickel coating can significantly reduce corrosion and wear, thereby extending the lifespan of the plated component. This method is particularly suitable for challenging environments, such as those found in the Mil-Aero and subsea applications.

SGA Poole can offer 2 Electroless Ni Solutions.

Medium Phosphorus (6-9% Phosphorous)

Most used variant, offers a balanced combination of corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and hardness.

Suitable for bonding & Soldering.

This finish is typically used in:

1. RF Waveguide (undercoat)
2. Mil-Aero
3. Semiconductor (Undercoat)

Both Mid phosphorus and High phosphorous nickel are, RoHS & REACH compliant.
Related specification: AMS 2404 -MIL-C-26704 – ISO 4527

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High Phosphorus (10-12% Phosphorus)

Offers superior corrosion resistance, rendering it ideal for components subjected to severe and corrosive conditions.

Non-magnetic characteristics are advantageous for uses, including applications in the electronics sector.

This finish is typically used in:

1. Marine / Subsea
2. Gas Pipeline
3. Industrial Applications

Watts & Sulphamate Nickel (Electrolytic)

Electrolytic nickel plating is a common industrial process in which a layer of pure nickel is electrochemically deposited onto a substrate. Both electrolytes are free from brighteners, which results in a dull finish, the absence of brighteners which are organic base, are omitted as excessive levels of organic material can be detrimental to post soldering and sealing operations.

Electrolytic nickel plating is particularly useful in automotive, aerospace, and electronics industries for its ability to provide a strong, uniform coating that can significantly extend the life and functionality of components.

Benefits of electrolytic nickel include.

	Corrosion resistance: The nickel coating provides corrosion resistance, durability, and strength.
	Machinability: It is easily machinable and solderable.
	Low stress: The nickel deposit is minimally stressed, making it ideal for parts that will be bent or flexed.
	High temperature resistance and excellent thermal transfer capabilities.
	Facilitates high temperature brazing and sealing.

	Corrosion resistance: The nickel coating provides corrosion resistance, durability, and strength.
	Machinability: It is easily machinable and solderable.
	Low stress: The nickel deposit is minimally stressed, making it ideal for parts that will be bent or flexed.
	High temperature resistance and excellent thermal transfer capabilities.
	Facilitates high temperature brazing and sealing.

This finish is typically used in:

1. Mil-Aero
2. Space
3. Gas Measurement

Related specification: QQ-N-290A

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