Diffuse Nickel-Cadmium

In addition to the many other types of plating that Reid can perform, we also offer diffused nickel-cadmium treatments. This is a special type of electroplating that electrodeposits both nickel and cadmium onto a part, then diffuses the two together into one layer. 

The process of diffused nickel-cadmium

This treatment is commonly deposited on parts made of carbon steel, low-alloy steel, and other corrosion-resistant steels. It’s best suited to parts with less complex shapes that require a surface coating with a specific level of thickness. 

First, all steel parts with a high hardness level that have been previously machined or formed are cleaned and put through a thermal, stress-relief process. This greatly reduces any mechanical stresses within the part before it undergoes plating. 

Once the parts are ready, they are electroplated–first with nickel deposits, and then with a thin layer of cadmium deposits. When electroplating is completed the parts are oven baked to diffuse the cadmium into the nickel layer, which is how the treatment gets its name. 

The applications of diffused nickel-cadmium

Typically, diffused nickel-cadmium treatments are done to prevent the corrosion of carbon and low-alloy steels that will regularly undergo extremely high temperatures. These parts are often found in aerospace and related defense applications as a result of their resistance to high temperatures. This type of plating also offers high corrosion resistance in salt-spray environments as well, making it excellent for a number of applications. 

Diffused nickel cadmium has many other benefits as well. It adds luster to the steel, improving its visual appeal and brightening the part’s appearance. Like many other types of electroplating, it offers excellent adhesion for subsequent coating layers. Regardless of the application, diffused nickel-cadmium is an excellent choice for steel parts that need to maintain high corrosion resistance even in high temperatures.