Cadmium plating was once the ideal for many highly demanding industrial applications. This type of electroplating held preference for many aeronautical and defense applications. Its ability to respond positively to the specific environmental requirements appeared to make it irreplaceable. However, with increasing concerns about the ecological impact of this metal, finishing companies have begun to focus on another process. This is black zinc nickel plating.
Why Choose Black Zinc Nickel Electroplating?
Black zinc nickel electroplating provides similar properties as cadmium plating does. It is a conductive but environmentally responsible surface treatment. Overall, black zinc-nickel electroplating:
* Non-reflective
* Has appropriate thickness – identical to cadmium
* Maintains mechanical integrity for designs originally requiring cadmium plating
* Corrosion resistant
* Slightly higher contact resistance than cadmium does
* The black color makes it perfect for many operations. In fact, the color may actually be an asset for divers military and defense applications
* Excellent temperature ranges – comparable to those of cadmium
Black zinc plating is a cost-effective, alternative to cadmium. The process exhibits excellent results under a standard salt spray performance test. This makes it ideal for any number of applications, including those in the aerospace and military industries. In fact, evidence suggests these two industries will increasingly opt for this alternative method of electroplating over the coming years.
Black Zinc Nickel Plating
Electroplating is an industry increasingly facing the growing concerns of an environmentally aware public. Legislation is curtailing the use of various heavy metals, including cadmium. For those companies who wish to continue to operate successfully, not only do they need to think progressively, they must also abandon older metals for more friendly alternatives. Instead of plating with cadmium, finishing companies must opt for such ecologically friendly materials as black zinc nickel. Plating with this metal reduces the risk of health issues and adheres to legislative and environmental guidelines while remaining cost-effective.
