What is zinc and nickel plating? We look at the key differences in processes, price and properties.
Zinc Plating
Zinc plating takes place during an electrochemical process. The metal part is submerged in a plating bath that contains a zinc electrolyte solution. The part is connected to a cathode, which causes the zinc ions to settle on the surface of the metal. It is commonly used for steel parts that are subject to environmental pressures.
Nickel Plating
Nickel plating is a very similar process, with the key difference being that the part is submerged in a nickel electrolyte bath. Nickel can also be applied via an electroless process whereby a chemical process deposits the nickel onto the part. This is often used for small and fiddly parts to ensure an even coating. Specialists such as www.swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/zinc-nickel-alloy-plating/ offer both electroless and electro nickel plating.
Zinc and Nickel Plating Differences
Nickel plating is longer lasting than zinc plating and is therefore a better choice for parts that face a lot of friction, such as moving components. However, zinc plating is the more economical choice.
What About Zinc Nickel Plating?
Increasingly popular is zinc nickel plating, which creates an alloyed surface of both metals. This is less expensive than nickel plating but offers some of the benefits, such as more durability than standard zinc plating.
Each type of plating has its benefits and it will depend entirely on the parts that need plating. Speak to your plating specialists for guidance on the right plating for you.
