Guide to the Advantages of Nickel Plating for Sheet Metal Parts

4 min readAug 29, 2023

Electroplating is a type of metal finishing that involves depositing a thin layer of metal on a substrate metal. Different metals, such as gold, silver, zinc, and nickel, are used in electroplating. Nickel plating is a versatile and highly beneficial technique, especially for sheet metal parts. Renowned for its durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal, nickel plating offers a range of advantages that make it a go-to choice for enhancing the performance and appearance of sheet metal components.

In this blog, you will learn the advantages of nickel plating for sheet metal parts.

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Corrosion Resistance

The primary advantage of nickel plating is that it offers exceptional corrosion resistance. That’s why it is one of the chosen metals for plating. Nickel forms a protective layer that shields the substrate metal from environmental factors, including oxidation, moisture, and excessive heat.

Sheet metals intended to be applied for outdoor usage, such as marine applications, are often nickel-plated to extend the life of sheet metals.

Durability and Wear Resistance

Nickel-plated sheet metal parts are durable and wear-resistant. The purpose of plating is that the external layer of the metal protects the substrate from abrasion, scratching, and other external factors. Nickel is a hard metal that makes nickel-plated parts ideal for applications where mechanical stress and friction are prevalent.

Aesthetics

Nickel is a beautiful, shiny metal, and its aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for metal finishes. It enhances the visual appeal of the sheet metal parts. Its bright, reflective finish can be enhanced with a polished or brushed appearance. It makes nickel plating a popular choice for both functional and decorative purposes.

Smooth and Uniform Coating

Nickel is smooth and uniform, covering intricate sheet metal parts that might be hard to reach. This uniformity ensures consistent performance and appearance across the entire component.

Electrical Conductivity

Like most metals, nickel is a good conductor of electricity. Thus, it is preferred for sheet metal parts used in electronic and electrical applications. It allows a layer of protection against oxidation while maintaining the metal’s electrical properties.

Adhesion and Bonding Properties

Nickel plating is also used as surface preparation for subsequent coating of metals such as chromium. It is used as an undercoat due to its adhesion of various coatings and paints onto sheet metal surfaces. It can be particularly beneficial when additional layers of protection or color are desired.

Nickel Plating Applications

Wondering where nickel plating is used? Read on to learn the industries where nickel plating is applied.

Coinage

The silver-colored coins that you see are generally nickel-plated steel. ‘Why is nickel used in coinage’ might make you wonder.

First, because it costs low to the government, the nickel protects the steel underneath. Second, nickel offers sharp definition and detail on the coins, which can withstand rough usage while maintaining the original carving. As the years pass, the nickel wears off, but the steel is good for recycling.

Nickel in Plastic Industries

Nickel plating is used on numerous plastic products to offer them the required strength.

Automotive Industry

The automotive industry requires timeless solutions so the products can perform for several years. In the car industry, nickel is extensively used for aluminum and plastic coating to offer aesthetic benefits and durability. The zinc-nickel coating is especially popular due to its carrion protection.

Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry must follow strict regulations for even the smallest equipment to ensure safety and reliability. In aerospace, nickel plating offers corrosion resistance, heat resistance, wear and tear, erosion, and adhesion for multiple components.

Electronics Industry

Reliability and safety are paramount in the electrical world, as even the slightest failure can cause life-threatening events. Nickel is a good conductor of electricity and is used extensively in electrical components, including connectors, circuits, microprocessors, etc., making them corrosion and heat-resistant.

Final Words

The advantages of nickel plating for sheet metal parts are undeniable. Whether used for functional or decorative purposes, nickel-plated sheet metal parts exemplify the fusion of scientific advancement and skilled artisanship. These components offer long-lasting solutions that meet the demands of modern manufacturing and design.

At New Mexico Metals LLC, we are dedicated to offering unmatchable services to all our customers. Our expertise extends to metal cutting, shearing, punching notching, and even metal drilling services in Albuquerque. With decades of experience, we are the best in the industry.

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