Purpose Of Plating
Perhaps the most common decorative metal plating technique is nickel-chrome plating. Master Finish Company specializes in this finishing process, in which a thin layer of chrome is applied over a layer or multiple layers of nickel plating.
For most exterior components requiring corrosion protection and wear, a bright nickel layer is plated over semi-bright nickel plating, and then covered with a thin application of chrome plating. This provides a hard, decorative chrome finish that can withstand the elements, and is very popular for parts that are exposed to the elements, such as in automobiles and motorcycles.
When To Use Nickel Chrome Plating
Nickel-chrome plating can be used in the as-deposited condition or may be hardened, depending on the intended service conditions.
- Corrosion-Resistant : Specifically, the nickel plating process deposits a 12-15 percent nickel coating on the metals. This nickel plate resists corrosion, even at prolonged temperatures of 250 degrees Fahrenheit. nickel plate is reliable and uniform for use in electrical circuits. When sprayed with saltwater, nickel plate lasts 360 hours before the surface is corroded to a white appearance and 1,000+ hours before it rusts red.
- Durable, Scratch-Resistant
- Malleable and Polishes Well : Nickel is a shiny silver-white metal with a slightly gold tint. It is malleable and polishes well. Malleable nickel makes the surface of metal flexible for the creation of decorations, sculptures, and craft projects. it is not flammable and deposits do not easily form on its surface. Nickel-Chrome plated metal makes pipes for use in industrial and household plumbing.
- Conducts Heat and Electricity : Nickel-Chrome conducts heat and electricity When bound to metal, nickel-chrome plated is used by all the major automobile anufacturers to produce sturdy, scratch-resistant, heat-resistant cars and trucks. Nickel-chrome plated iron is used to create batteries with a long shelf-life and that conduct and store electricity longer and do not degrade after long hours of use. Nickel-chrome plated is also less expensive than other alloys.