Electroplating nickel is a protective and decorative technique that has been in use since the 1800s. Today nickel electroplating is a quick and convenient way to alter the appearance of metal to make it silver and shiny, and to create a protective layer to extend the lifespan of the metal. It has many powerful industrial applications.
What Happens When Electroplating Nickel on An Object?
When electroplating nickel onto an object a thin coating of nickel slowly appears on the metal. This process occurs because the ions from the nickel are broken free by applying a current of electricity to them and they travel to metal that has been attached to the negative side, or the cathode, of your power source. The science behind the concept is complex, but the process is straightforward. Electricity is continuously applied until the desired thickness of nickel plating is achieved on the other metal.
How Does Electroplating Nickel Work?
The process of electroplating nickel to another metal is an interesting chemical process that releases nickel ions into a liquid solution and then adheres them to a chosen metal surface. The process relies on electricity as its catalyst and it takes time to occur.
A pure source of nickel is attached to the positive terminal of the chosen power source – usually a power supply – while the metal that’s to be plated is attached to the negative terminal. Both pieces of metal are set in a salty liquid that can conduct electricity without interfering with the reaction. Finally, a current of electricity is applied so that power runs between the positive and negative terminals through the salty solution. Nickel ions are forced to break away from the nickel and are attracted to the other metal with its negative charge. They evenly distribute to the other metal’s surface, leaving a layer of nickel to cover every bit of the submerged metal.
Both the level of current flowing through the solution, as well as the length of time the electroplating occurs determines the final thickness achieved. Standard electroplating techniques result in a final coating up to 0.02 inches, or 0.5 millimeters thick, but specialized techniques can achieve coatings as thick as 10mm.
Is Electroplating Nickel Only For Decoration?
It’s true that many people utilize nickel electroplating to decorate metallic parts and components, but an electroplated coating of nickel is more than a pretty accent, it’s a functional upgrade too. When applied to copper, steel, and other metals nickel gives the part a pleasant silver coloring, but a layer of nickel offers protective properties as well. Nickel guards against corrosion on metals like steel and zinc, and it provides some abrasion resistance. This is why we utilize nickel electroplating on our valves and manifold blocks to make them more durable.
Nickel is often used as an underlayer for other protective coatings. Metals such as chromium adhere well to nickel, making nickel plating a good first step when applying many protective coatings. Nickel is also highly conductive and nickel plating is applied to circuit boards to conduct electricity in modern electronics. All these different applications make nickel electroplating practical for most industries.
Safety Concerns When Electroplating Nickel
Only trained professionals must conduct nickel electroplating. During the electroplating process, hazardous gases are given off that can irritate and potentially harm your lungs. Proper ventilation is essential when electroplating to mitigate breathing risks.
Electroplating is a chemical reaction, which means the solution used will increase in temperature. For this reason, electroplating is a burning hazard and temperatures should be monitored and protective gloves are recommended.
When utilizing electroplating equipment there are electrical hazards to be aware of as well. The electroplating reaction depends on electrolysis, which utilizes a steady flow of electricity. It’s possible to electrocute yourself when performing this action if you make dangerous mistakes.
It’s also important to note that using improper chemicals for the electroplating process can result in harmful gases or even explosions. Only skilled professionals with the proper training should attempt to electroplate metals.
What Other Metals Can Be Electroplated
Nickel is applied through the electroplating process regularly, but it isn’t the only metal. A long list of alternative metals can also be applied via the electroplating process. Many of these alternatives are applied for the same reasons nickel, as decoration, and as a protective coating.
This list overviews some of the most common metals used in electroplating.
- Copper – Applied to conduct heat or electricity, or as a base layer before another coating type.
- Zinc – This metal is popular because it’s cheap, safe for humans to touch, and resistant to corrosion.
- Gold – Gold is a favorite metal for electroplating because it’s tolerated well within the body, making it ideal for medical implants. It’s also used in electronics to conduct electricity.
- Titanium – Prized for excellent corrosion resistance and for powerful abrasion resistance.
- Iron – Added for strength while maintaining some flexibility.
There are many other metals in use today that are applied via the electroplating process. Electroplating is a favorite technique because it’s easy to control and can be performed delicately to avoid damaging sensitive components.
The Many Industrial Purposes for Nickel Electroplating
Nickel is used inside electronics, as a protective coating on most metals, and as a decorative accent on firearms, automotive parts, hydraulic components, and more. Products are enhanced with nickel plating to make them more durable, which is the main reason nickel electroplating is used in automotive, construction, and military applications.
Conclusion
Electroplating nickel to other metals for additional protection is a favorite technique with many useful industrial applications. Most industries, depend on protection from electroplating in one way or another, and it’s surprising how many products sold today depend on the technology. As a business owner, it’s important to understand the benefits of nickel electroplating so that you can obtain the highest-quality components, and so you understand the upgrade options available for your own manufacturing process.
