Electroless Nickels are chemical plating processes that auto catalytically deposit nickel alloyed with 1 % to 12% by weight phosphorus. Electroless nickel deposits are produced by chemical reduction of nickel onto metallic or non-metallic substrates. Since the process requires no electrical current (as used in electrolytic deposition of chromium or nickel), the result is a very uniform continuous coating. Blind holes, threads, channels and recesses of internal areas receive the same amount of plate as sharp corners, edges or flat surfaces.

Total "as plated" thickness can often be reduced and close tolerances (within 1.25 to 2.5 microns, 0.00005" to 0.0001") maintained. Additionally, post-grinding or polishing operations can often be eliminated because parts can be plated to size.

Since electroless nickel coatings mirror the surface profile of the substrate, little or no post-plate burnishing is required to retain very low RMS values of a substrate. In fact, RMS values of 5 to 10 are achievable in production.

Electroless Nickel coatings can achieve bond strengths of 2800 to 4200 kglcm2 (40,000 to 60,000 psi)* on steel. (*Determined by the Ring Shear Method). Most Electroless Nickel coatings have as-plated hardness values of 48RC to 50Re' These hardness values can be increased to 65RC to 69RC when heat treated.

The excellent wear characteristics of Electroless Nickel coatings make them suited for a wide range of applications and problem solving tasks. This is due to their high hardness, good adhesion, excellent lubricity, low coefficient of friction, and uniform coverage capability.

The overall wear properties of Electroless Nickel deposits, under lubricated conditions, can be equal or even superior to hard chromium plating. This can be especially important when utilizing heavy deposit build-ups in overhaul and repair operations.

**Electroless nickel plate is a cost-effective, durable and attractive finish for high volume production parts.

**Electroless Nickel plating of large molds and dies improves their release characteristics and extends their resistance to corrosion and wear.

Corrosion Protection
Excellent resistance to corrosion is one of the most common reasons EN plating is specified for functional applications. It is particularly adept at fighting corrosion in chemical environments.

The corrosion protective properties of Electroless Nickel are partially attributable to its dense, essentially amorphous structure which can be free from porosity. The extremely uniform nature of the coating also helps insure consistent coating thickness in all areas and adds to the corrosion resistance of the deposit.

Corrosion protection is achieved by substrate encapsulation as well as surface oxide formation. The extremely uniform nature of the coating also helps insure consistent coating thickness in all areas and adds to the corrosion resistance of the deposit.

Wear I Abrasion Resistance
High as-plated hardness
Fast plating rate
Good solder ability
Excellent protection in caustic environments
Superior erosion resistance