When it comes to electroplating, there are various different metals and metal alloys you can choose. However, when it comes to the automotive industry, zinc nickel is a very popular choice. EC Williams, zinc nickel plating suppliers, we are eager to share a bit of information on how zinc nickel electroplating works. As well as why it’s such a great option for cars, and other vehicles.
Zinc Nickel Electroplating How Does It Work?
By co-depositing zinc and nickel at a specific ratio (nominally 15% nickel), the resulting coating offer a very high level of corrosion resistance (up to 1000 hours in a salt spray test).
Additionally, unlike traditional zinc plating, this alloy can be used in aluminium assemblies without causing a galvanic cell. This, as a result, increases the rate of corrosion of both the aluminium and the zinc plating. For this reason, zinc nickel has replaced cadmium in the aerospace industry.
There are also several post-treatments available for zinc nickel – including oils, sealants, lacquers and passivates. These treatments will enhance the corrosion protection qualities of the metal even further.
How Do They Use It The Automotive Industry?
Zinc nickel electroplating is often used in the automotive industry. In fact, its use has actually increased over the past few years. Why? Well, zinc nickel plating actually improves an item’s protection from corrosion. Which is obviously something extremely useful when it comes to cars and other vehicles.
In addition, zinc plating has always offered corrosion protection for metals used in automotive applications. Such as under the bonnets of cars. However, the alloys, e.g. zinc nickel, works better in certain situations.
This is because the alloy slows the corrosion rate even more as it becomes more noble than just zinc on its own. Not only can zinc nickel stand up to corrosion, but it is also resistant to high temperatures. This, therefore, makes it perfect for that under the bonnet use.
The automotive industry mostly takes up the market for this type of plating. For instance, it actually accounts for 75% of zinc nickel plating demands. Whereas, the aerospace industry accounts for around 20%.
Zinc nickel plated components have helped the automotive industry increase its warranty periods to 5 years, in some cases 7 years.
Finding the Best Zinc Nickel Electroplating Services
Zinc nickel plating is used to a great extent in Europe. Asia also uses this type of alloy plating a lot, with it gradually becoming more popular in North America. As a result, there are many companies offering to carry out your electroplating needs.
With so many options, it can be difficult to decide who to choose. However, if you’re located in the midlands, the Birmingham-based E.C. Williams can provide you with specialist knowledge, extensive experience, and state of the art equipment. Therefore, you can leave your electroplating requirements in the hands of people who really know what they’re doing. As the company was founded in 1921, they’ve definitely had a lot of practice in this area.
Call Us Today For Zinc Nickel Plating Suppliers
For more information please email us at plating@ecwilliams.co.uk or call us on 0121 236 2524. You might also like to read our blog about Nickel Electroplating.
