Why Electroless Nickel is the Superior Choice for Precision Components

Nickel plating is widely used to enhance corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and durability, but not all nickel plating processes are the same. While there are multiple methods—including electroplated nickel and sulfamate nickel—only Electroless Nickel Plating (ENP) offers uniform coverage on complex geometries, making it the preferred choice for precision engineering applications.

Types of Nickel Plating

Electroplated Nickel – Uses an electric current to deposit nickel onto a component. It is cost-effective and provides a smooth, decorative finish but does not offer uniform coverage, making it unsuitable for intricate or high precision components.
Sulfamate Nickel – A high-purity electroplated coating with excellent machinability, used for repairing worn parts. However, it lacks the uniformity and corrosion resistance of ENP.
Electroless Nickel (ENP) – Unlike electroplating, ENP deposits nickel evenly across a component without requiring an electric current. This ensures consistent thickness, even on complex shapes, and superior corrosion and wear resistance.

Electroless Nickel Plating at CBE+

At CBE+, we specialise in Medium and High Phosphorus Electroless Nickel Plating, offering tailored solutions to suit a variety of applications:

Medium Phosphorus ENP – Provides a balance between wear and corrosion resistance, ideal for applications exposed to abrasion.
High Phosphorus ENP – Offers the highest level of corrosion protection, particularly in harsh and acidic environments.
Nickel PTFE – Involves the incorporation of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) particles into the electroless nickel coating. This provides additional lubrication properties, making it ideal for components requiring low friction and resistance to wear.
Diffused Nickel – A specialised process that involves the diffusion of a nickel coating into the surface of a component, often used to enhance adhesion and provide extra protection against corrosion in aggressive environments.

All our plating processes are carried out in-house at our ISO 9001 and AS9100 accredited facility in Chesterfield, ensuring the highest standards of quality.

Get in touch today to discuss how our Electroless Nickel Plating solutions can enhance the performance and lifespan of your components.

Get in Touch Today

Ready to enhance the performance and lifespan of your components with Electroless Nickel Plating? Contact CBE+ today to discuss your specific needs and find the right solution for your application.