Non-electric precision and durability of nickel coating

Autocatalytic process based on ATOTECH technology.

Chemical nickel plating

Chemical nickel plating is an autocatalytic process without the use of electric current, resulting in the deposition of nickel alloy on the surface of the treated elements. This method allows for even coating of even the most complex shapes. The nickel alloy contains phosphorus, the amount of which in the alloy determines the optical and mechanical properties of the coating. The process is fully compliant with RoHS 2 standards, free of cadmium and lead, and results in a safe and environmentally friendly coating with unique properties.

During chemical nickel plating, components are immersed in a special autocatalytic bath, where a specific chemical reaction leads to the deposition of a nickel alloy containing phosphorus. The coating of this alloy has different mechanical properties depending on the phosphorus content, where low-phosphorus nickel plating is characterised by hardness and strength, and high-phosphorus nickel plating is characterised by excellent corrosion resistance and antistatic and non-magnetic properties. It is also possible to use Teflon-reinforced nickel coatings, which increase abrasion resistance and improve tribological properties.

The parameters of the chemical coating are strictly controlled, including abrasion resistance, hardness, internal stress, tensile strength and corrosion resistance, tested in accordance with DIN standards. The process is mainly used in the rack method, with a barrel option for small components, on modern, mechanised lines with a load capacity of up to 300 kg.

Process parameters

  • Medium phosphorus chemical nickel plating (5-9% P) – hardness approx. 560 HV after deposition, 1000 HV after annealing
  • Modulus of elasticity: 170 - 200 kN/mm²
  • Abrasion resistance: 25-35 mg/1000 revolutions (CS 10 abrasion test)
  • Low internal stresses
  • Corrosion resistance in accordance with DIN 50966 (class 2) and DIN 50021 test (>500 h)
  • Moderate magnetism

High-phosphorus, low-phosphorus and Teflon chemical nickel plating are also available (processes available for large-volume orders).

Production capacity

The process is mainly carried out using the suspension technique, with the possibility of using the drum technique. We have two fully mechanised production lines with a lifting capacity of up to 300 kg, enabling the tinning of steel, cast iron, chrome-nickel steel, copper and brass components. Specialised processes (high phosphorus, low phosphorus, with Teflon) are available for large-scale orders, ensuring flexibility and quality of production.

Advantages of the coating

Chemical nickel plating is an environmentally friendly process that is a safe alternative to traditional hexavalent chromium plating, free from allergens and safe for contact with food. It has a unique ability to cover surfaces that cannot be achieved with standard electrolytic processes. As a result, these coatings are widely used in the food, electronics, automotive and many other industries.