Zinc nickel plating represents a significant advance in corrosion protection for industrial components. An electroplated alloy coating that typically contains 12-15% nickel with the balance being zinc, its performance is superior to conventional zinc finishes.
The process explained
The coating process is a highly specialised skill, offered by only a small number of the UK’s electroplating companies, such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/plating/zinc-nickel-plating. Zinc nickel coating provides uniform thickness across complex geometries and accommodates both rack and barrel plating methods. When combined with trivalent passivation and topcoat treatments, zinc nickel finishes regularly withstand over 1,000 hours in neutral salt spray testing, making them particularly valuable for safety-critical applications.
Significance in the automotive sector
Industries including automotive manufacturing rely heavily on this type of coating. Common applications include brake system connectors, suspension components, powertrain brackets and structural fasteners. These components are regularly exposed to road salt, moisture and mechanical stress.
The greening of aerospace
Zinc nickel plating has largely replaced cadmium plating in the aerospace industry as an environmentally friendly alternative.
Uses in the electrical industry
The electrical sector uses zinc nickel for busbars, terminal blocks and power distribution systems where low contact resistance and oxidation prevention are essential.
Environmental compliance
Modern zinc nickel processes meet stringent automotive specifications from major OEMs and comply with REACH and RoHS environmental regulations, making them suitable for contemporary engineering demands.
Cost benefits
While initial costs are higher than those of standard zinc plating, the long-term value justifies the extra expense. Its enhanced durability reduces product failures, minimises maintenance downtime and helps manufacturers avoid costly recalls.
