Zinc-Nickel (ZnNi) plating is a relatively recent development in the metal finishing industry, often marketed as an environmentally friendly, and safer alternative to cadmium plating. Like cadmium plating, zinc-nickel plating is a sacrificial type of coating, but with the addition of Nickel, it effectively adds a second barrier against corrosion. However, unlike cadmium plating, Zinc-Nickel plating does not have the added risk of exposure to carcinogens, and provides an excellent protection against corrosion for the parts to which it’s applied.
A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO ZINC-NICKEL PLATING
Zinc-Nickel plating combines the sacrificial coating properties of zinc with Nickel’s strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance to create a superior surface finish. Zinc-Nickel plating is a flexible coating with a variety of applications. Most often, this type of plating is used on components for landing gears, actuators, flap tracks, and more.
Over the years, there has been a push to find safe and viable alternatives to cadmium plating, which led to the development of zinc-nickel plating. Now, this type of plating is approved for selective applications by several large Aerospace organizations around the world. It’s also an excellent choice for components across several other industries, such as the Automotive, Fastener, and Defense industries.
ZINC-NICKEL PLATING AT REID METAL FINISHING
Zinc Nickel Plating is an alkaline coating that is used in the protection of steel, cast iron, malleable iron, copper, and brass. When you need an environmentally safer alternative to cadmium plating that also offers the same level of corrosion protection, Zinc-Nickel plating is the way to go.
There are also a number of other benefits to using Zinc-Nickel plating, including:
- Improved ductility
- Heat resistance
- A thin, smooth, and uniform coating
- Corrosion resistance in a variety of extreme environments
- Improved wear resistance for moving parts
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