Since its inception, electroless nickel plating has become one of the most desired methods for finishing metal parts and surfaces. Among its attractive qualities are uniform coating, easy plating on holes and recessed areas, varying degrees of finish brightness and corrosion resistance.

There are a variety of solutions for individual nickel plating needs, depending on the size of the project and the desired result. Some options to explore while researching electroless nickel plating:

1. Try electroless plating kits for small quantity projects,

2. Outsource to electroless nickel plating companies for bulk parts and equipment projects, and

3. Make things brighter with decorative nickel plating.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Do your own electroless plating by purchasing nickel coating kits

Electroless nickel plating kits are a perfect solution for small-scale nickel plate coating projects. These plating sets come with everything a person needs from bath containers to chemistry.

I recommend: MetalQuip, a plating and finishing supply company, offers electroless nickel plating kits that range from ready to use finishing to plating for engineering purposes. Caswell offers electroless nickel kits in varying sizes (from a few pints to about five gallons). In addition to providing the chemicals to make an electroless nickel plating solution, Caswell provides an informative instruction manual and free technical support.

Employ electroless nickel plating services for parts and equipment

Electroless nickel plating companies can treat metal parts from the preparation stage to the coating and polishing phase. Metal parts, especially those needed for industrial equipment, require a coating that prevents rust and corrosion. For this reason, many choose to have their parts finished with an electroless nickel coating.

I recommend: Consider the electroless nickel plating services at Electro-Coatings. Their Nye-Tef coating technology promises corrosion resistance and uniform coating on metal parts and surfaces. They also offer a pioneer plating process known as Kanigen. Mil-Spec Metal Finishing offers electroless nickel plating that promises uniform coating and lubricity without over-plating threaded parts on metal equipment.

Improve aesthetic quality with decorative nickel plating

Metal parts or surfaces that will be in plain view of customers can be made more attractive with a decorative nickel finish. Decorative plating means that the metal coating has a finish that is smoother and brighter than practical coatings.

I recommend: Look into the SuperBright electroless nickel plating services at ProPlate. The nickel is treated to its highest level of luster, giving metal surfaces a bright and glossy metallic sheen. Metal Finishing Technologies offers electroless plating services that leave metal parts and surfaces corrosion-free while maintaining a bright, decorative finish.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When using electroless plating kits, it is important to properly dispose of leftover chemicals. A reliable kit will either come with disposal concentrate or thorough disposal instructions. If unsure, contact your local water plant and find out which chemicals are safe for drain disposal.
• •  Nickel finishes become harder as they get brighter. When employing decorative nickel plating, it is best to use parts that will not require flexibility following the process.