Nickel-plating services tailored to your specific requirements, with a consistent & quality finish every time. Let us help you achieve your vision with timely delivery and reliable service. Reach out to us today for a quote.
What is nickel plating?
Nickel plating, also known as nickel electroplating, is a process that deposits a thin layer of nickel onto the surface of a metal or plastic substrate, using either electroless nickel plating (ENP), which relies on a chemical reaction, or electrolytic nickel plating, which uses an electric current. Both methods enhance the performance and longevity of components by improving durability, strength, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and appearance. Nickel plating is often used as an undercoat for other plating processes. This versatile surface treatment is suitable for a wide range of substrates, including steel, copper, brass and aluminium, making it highly valuable across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing.
Nickel Plating benefits
Nickel electroplating generally enhances various characteristics that the base material lacks.
If you are looking for an electroplating solution that offers both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, then nickel plating is an excellent choice. Thanks to its high oxidation resistance, it provides excellent resistance against wear and corrosion, making it a durable option. Additionally, it can also be plated on other materials and serve as an undercoat, as nickel can form alloys with other metals such as copper.
Electroplated nickel forms a strong metallurgical bond with the substrate, enhancing the overall adhesion and integrity of the coating.
Nickel plating is often more affordable and efficient than alternative coating methods, especially for large-scale or high-volume manufacturing.
The nickel layer increases surface hardness, significantly improving resistance to wear, abrasion, and mechanical stress.
Your Nickel Electroplating Partner
With over 70 years of industry experience, we have a proven track record of providing high-quality nickel plating finishes to a wide range of customers.
High-quality nickel plating
Rapid response to enquiries (24 hours)
Component pick-up and delivery options
Custom plating solutions
Fast lead times
How Can Nickel Plating Improve Your Manufacturing Outcomes?
In general, nickel electroplating improves a wide range of characteristics that are not inherently present in the base material. You can expect some of these benefits:
In general, nickel electroplating improves a wide range of characteristics that are not inherently present in the base material. You can expect some of these benefits:
- Longer-Lasting Components – increased resistance to corrosion means your parts withstand harsh environments, reducing the frequency of replacements and keeping your production line running smoothly.
- Reduced Downtime and Maintenance – Improved hardness and wear resistance protect critical components from damage, minimising unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Increased Load-Bearing Capacity – Superior strength ensures your components can handle higher stresses and demanding applications without failure.
- Greater Design Flexibility – Improved ductility allows your parts to be formed into complex shapes and endure mechanical stress without cracking, supporting innovative engineering solutions.
- Consistent Quality and Reliability – With nickel plating, your products maintain their integrity and performance over time, helping you meet stringent industry standards and exceed customer expectations.
Our Highly trained personnel and strict quality and environmental controls ensure top quality nickel plated finishes. Fully accredited in all key metal finishing areas, including: Environment Permit: FP3636YZ ISO 9001 (Quality) ISO 14001 (Environmental) OHSAS 18001 (Health & Safety)
Types of Nickel plating solutions we offer
With Karas Plating as your partner, you avoid poor-quality plating, production delays, and supply chain stress and benefit from the following nickel plating solutions:
Electroless nickel plating (ENP) is an immersion-based autocatalytic plating method that, unlike many similar techniques, does not require an electrical current. There are three different methods of ENP – low, medium and high phosphorous with medium being the most common process. Find out more about our electroless nickel plating service.
Electrolytic Nickel Plating also involves submerging the substrate in a bath of solution, but it requires an electrical current for the plating process. Both methods result in a thin layer of nickel being added to the target substrate, but electroless nickel plating provides several notable advantages compared to the electrolytic process.
Comparing Electroless Nickel & Electrolytic Nickel
We believe that electroless nickel plating is the perfect solution for our customers because of its ability to provide an even deposit of plating on complex components. Additionally, it offers cost benefits as it requires fewer process stages, making it a more cost-effective option. You can see more about the differences between Electroless and electrolytic plating by clicking the link below.
Benefits of nickel plating process
Energy efficiency: Unlike traditional electroplating methods, electroless nickel plating doesn't require an electrical current, making it more energy-efficient.
Fast and effective process: The nickel plating process is quick and efficient, allowing for high-volume production.
Excellent corrosion resistance: Nickel plating provides excellent protection against corrosion, making it a popular choice for components that will be exposed to harsh environments.
Choice of finish (Bright or dull)
Improved aesthetics: Nickel plating can improve the visual appearance of components by providing a shiny, attractive finish.
Nickel plating components
Here are some of the most popular components that we plate with nickel:
- Automotive components
- Aircraft components
- Connectors
- Copper busbars
- Cable glands
Do you have components that require nickel plating? Contact us today and one of our team members will assist you.
How to Order Nickel Plating
Submit an enquiry and receive a reply / quote within 1 business day.
Discuss technical requirements with our experts (including sample & trials if needed).
Parts are processed, inspected, and tested using state-of-the-art equipment and highly skilled staff.
Parts are packaged and shipped on time. We can provide transport anywhere in the UK, please get in touch for our shipping rates.
Sectors
Nickel plating is a highly versatile process that finds its use in a wide range of sectors. The aviation industry uses nickel extensively because of its capability to withstand high temperatures. Similarly, the automotive industry benefits from its corrosion and wear-resistant qualities that ensure the longevity and durability of parts. These are just a few examples of how nickel plating can be useful. If you have any requirements that can benefit from the use of nickel plating, please feel free to get in touch with our team.
