How to Choose the Right Electroless Nickel Coating for Your Application

Selecting the optimal surface coating is critical to maximising performance for specific applications. At CBE+, we offer tailored solutions that include a range of plating options designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. From variations in phosphorus content in Electroless Nickel to innovative coatings like Nickel PTFE and Diffused Nickel Plating, each option serves distinct purposes. Here we explain the differences in processes and benefits to help you select the right coating for your project:

High Phosphorus Coatings

High-phosphorus Nickel coatings are perfect for environments where corrosion resistance is a top priority.

Advantages:

Better Corrosion Resistance: Ideal for harsh environments and long-term protection.
Higher Electrical Resistivity: Useful in electronic applications.
Increased Elongation: Offers better flexibility under stress or deformation.
Non-magnetic: when above 11.2% phosphorus content, ideal for electronic or aerospace components

High-phosphorus coatings are ideal for applications in corrosive conditions, such as Oil & Gas.

Medium Phosphorus Coatings

Medium-phosphorus Nickel coatings excel in wear-resistant and high-hardness applications.

Advantages:

Higher Hardness: Provides higher wear resistance which performs well in abrasive environments.
Increased Wear Resistance: Enhances component durability under stress.
More Solderable: Easier to solder for electronic applications.
Higher Melting Point
Slightly Magnetic

Medium-phosphorus coatings are best for high-wear applications for example automotive and industrial machinery.

Nickel PTFE (Ni-PTFE) Coatings

For applications requiring low friction and improved lubricity, Nickel PTFE (Ni-PTFE) is an excellent choice.

What is Ni-PTFE?
Ni-PTFE is a composite plating solution that combines the qualities of Electroless Nickel with the lubricity of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It offers a uniform, self-lubricating coating that is accurately deposited, making it ideal for applications requiring both hardness and low friction.

Key Benefits:

Combines the low-friction release properties of PTFE with the wear resistance of Medium Phos ENP.
Offers a lubricious, hard coating with uniform thickness.
Widely used in the automotive, engineering, and mould and die industries.

Ni-PTFE is suitable for components in need of both wear resistance and low friction, such as moving parts in automotive and industrial machinery.

Diffused Nickel Plating (DNP)

For applications demanding the highest level of corrosion protection, Diffused Nickel Plating (DNP) is the gold standard.

What is DNP?
DNP combines Electroless Nickel Plating with additional heat treatment to enhance its corrosion resistance. This process is particularly effective in extreme environments, extending the operational life of components.

Key Benefits:

Superior corrosion resistance compared to standard ENP.
Heat treatment improves durability and performance in harsh conditions.
Extends the operational life of subsea components to decades.
Favoured by the oil and gas industry for long-term reliability.

DNP is ideal for components used in subsea environments or applications exposed to extreme conditions.

Making the Right Choice

When deciding on the right coating, consider the following:

Environment: Will the component face corrosion, wear, or high, low or wide variations in temperatures?
Application: Does it require hardness, lubricity, or a balance of both?
Longevity: Is long-term performance critical, especially in extreme environments?

With over 35 years of experience in delivering variations of Electroless Nickel Plating, our technical team are true experts in the field. We pride ourselves on providing tailored advice to suit your specific project requirements. Let us handle the complexities—get in touch with us today.