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A specialty process offered by RIE, Plating can be applied for either decorative or cosmetic appearance, or for functionality.
Electroless nickel plating, also known as autocatalytic plating, is a process used to deposit a layer of nickel onto a surface without the use of an external power supply. Instead of relying on an electrical current, this method uses a controlled chemical reaction in the plating tank to reduce nickel ions from solution to metallic nickel on the surface of the part.
Because the process is chemical rather than electrical, electroless plating produces a highly uniform coating—even on complex geometries or recessed areas. It’s a reliable alternative to traditional nickel electroplating, especially in applications requiring consistent thickness or enhanced corrosion resistance.
An alternative to nickel electroplating is another class of plating known as electroless, or autocatalytic, plating.
This is where the metal is reduced from an ionic state to an atomic state by a chemical reaction in the tank without an external power supply.
The electroless nickel that RIE plates is about 6-9% phosphorous, the result of nickel sulfate being reduced to metallic nickel by sodium hypophosphite.
RIE Electroless Nickel Plating Specifications:
– ASTM-B-733
– MIL-C-26074
– AMS 2404
Electroless Nickel can be applied to:
– Aluminum
– Brass
– Copper
– Steel
– Stainless Steel
Our team will work with you to determine the best plating solution for your specific parts and application.