SERVICES
Nickel Plate
The Nickel Plating Experts in Perth
Why Nickel Plate?
Nickel plating possesses a wide range of desirable characteristics:
- Conductivity
- Ductility (easily bent without damage)
- Corrosion resistance
- Precise thickness control
- High melting point
- Excellent adhesion for subsequent coating layers
- Uniformity of deposit
- Brightness of deposit
- Abrasion resistance
- Hardness
- Magnetic at room temperature
Nickel plate can also improve the external appearance of a product. Different nickel-plating chemicals incorporated into the process deliver anything from a semi-bright to fully bright cosmetic effects (matt, pearl or satin finishes). The majority of nickel produced goes into stainless steel with 8% going into plating.
What is Bright Nickel?
Nickel is always used under chrome finishes, and sometimes under silver finishes. In fact, if your silver does not appear as bright as it used to, there’s a good chance that you are polishing nickel.
Bright Nickel levels imperfections and is very hard and bright. It is the metal that gives the mirror-like characteristics to chrome. However, it dulls over time if no other metals are electroplated over the top.
Nickel Properties
Nickel is the fifth most common element on earth. Commonly found in the earth’s crust and core, nickel is also a key element of meteorites. Nickels biggest use is in alloying – particularly with chromium and other metals to produce stainless and heat-resisting steels. Its chemical and physical properties make it essential in a wide range of products.
Nickel Electroplating in Industry
Consumer Goods
Electroplated nickel enhances the value, look and utility of manufactured goods, providing attractive finishes as well as corrosion resistance. Particularly popular are taps / faucets, bathroom fittings, door and cupboard fixtures, metal furniture, appliances and consumer electronics. Bright, satin, pearl and black coatings are also preferred by the automotive and motorcycle industry.
Aerospace
The unique properties of nickel meet the stringent criteria of the aerospace industry. Hardness, anti-corrosion and heat resistance are all key requirements of the components required for aircraft build.
Electronics
The demand for nickel plating grows in line with the ever-increasing demand for electronics. Nickel is popular for its high solder ability, coupled with its capability to create a barrier layer. The barrier layer is an important aspect, avoiding the migration of metals (known as ‘whiskers’) which cause short circuits.