06/01/2017
Electroless nickel plating has become an increasingly popular technique for a variety of manufacturing applications, such as architectural glass coatings, solar panels, or coating plastic and zinc molds. The method is simple: It uses an autocatalytic reaction to coat a conductive material with a thin layer of nickel.
Here’s how electroless nickel plating has evolved throughout the years:
•Early Development: Electroless nickel plating was a chemical accident discovered in 1844 when an aqueous solution was used in the presence of hypophosphite. In 1911, it was found that nickel was inevitably precipitated in powder form. A process for plating the inner walls of tubes with a nickel-tungsten alloy was developed in 1946.
•Research Phase: Commercial interest in the electroless nickel plating process began around 1950. A research program continued for many years at General American Transportation Corporation, which focused on improving heat treatments, corrosion resistance, and the regeneration process of baths and stabilizers.
•Patent Issuance: The research and development phases ended with the issuance of patents on the plating of particulates such as abrasives, plastics, and glass spheres. It was also at this time that room-temperature baths for plating on plastics were developed.
•electroless nickel platingRefinement Phase: Since the mid-1960s, experts have devoted their time to the refinement of the electroless nickel plating process. They have also come up with new applications in the areas of mechanisms, stability, and corrosion testing. It has been discovered that some alloys produced by electroless deposition have unique properties.
•Modern Discoveries: Electroless nickel plating is needed in the electronics industry, especially for printed circuits, DVRs, and smartphones. It can also be used in aluminum alloys or alloy steels that need enhanced corrosion performance.
For electroless nickel plating and coating services in Rochester, NY, turn to Rochester Overnight Plating for quality electroless nickel plating services. They use a computerized order control system to allow for a seamless, fast, and efficient workflow, so most of their work can be accomplished overnight. They also specialize in precision zinc plating. Call them today at (585) 328-4590 or visit their website to learn more about their services or view their portfolio.
