Nickel plating is one of the most popular metal coating techniques, protecting screws, machinery components, and hardware in a wide array of industries. You might have heard the term “electroless nickel plating” when discussing corrosion-resistance treatments, but what does it mean, and does it really matter how nickel is applied to an object? While the coating itself may be similar, each process produces incredibly different results.

The Difference Between Electroless & Traditional Nickel Plating

The Application Process

With traditional electrolyte nickel plating, the object is placed in a chemical solution, then subjected to a mild electrical current. The electricity causes nickel atoms to bond with the metal substrate, producing a hardened outer layer with superior corrosion resistance. Electroless plating, on the other hand, accomplishes the coating through a chemical reaction in the solution itself, without the need for electricity.

Variations in Uniformity

Because traditional nickel plating relies on electricity, the outer coating tends to be thickest along edges and inside holes, where the current is the strongest. Electroless nickel plating creates a much more uniform coating, even inside bore holes and the threads of screws. As a result, it’s ideal for parts and machinery requiring high degrees of precision.

Additional Elements

Electroless nickel plating also uses phosphorus, producing much better results than the traditional method. In addition to a smoother surface with less friction, objects subjected to electroless plating are more resistant to corrosion, less reactive to magnetic fields, and much harder than those with an electrolyte coating.

No matter what industry you’re in, Porter Guertin Co. in Cincinnati has the capacity and expertise to provide high-quality coating services on any type of equipment or product. At their state-of-the-art facility, they will exceed your expectations and improve the durability of your parts. To discuss your nickel plating project and request a quote, visit their website or give them a call at (513) 241-7663.