Five types of nickel coating

Nickel coating is simply applying a thin sheet of nickel onto metal objects to strengthen them, protecting them from corrosion and, depending on the type of nickel plating used, improving the aesthetics.
There are many variations of nickel plating and multiple processes to choose from, so let’s look at the five most important to help you narrow down your choices.

1. Bright nickel

The most common form of nickel plating, bright nickel is favoured for its protective capabilities, attractive shine, relatively simple application, and low cost. This form of nickel plating is done through electroplating, which is an intricate-sounding but simple process whereby electricity is used to coat one metal with another by splitting metal atoms and depositing them. Bright nickel isn’t very durable, unfortunately, and the coating can gradually wear off over time.

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2. Satin nickel

Another product of electroplating, satin nickel gets its name from the duller finish it produces, contrasting with the shine of bright nickel. It is more resistant to corrosion than bright nickel, making it ideal for plating objects that will have to weather harsh conditions. The satin look isn’t necessarily ugly, but it won’t give you the glossy aesthetic of bright nickel.More thorough comparisons and advice are available at Yahoo.

3. Electroless nickel

We are throwing a wrench in the works with this one. The electroless nickel coating form of plating uses an autocatalytic chemical reaction but gives you the same end result: metal deposited onto another metal.

More nuanced detail on processes and services can be obtained from specialists such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/standard-treatments/electroless-nickel-plating.

This form of plating tends to be thicker, offering even greater resistance and providing an alternative depending on your equipment.

4. Sulfamate nickel

This process uses sulfamic acid as an electrolyte in an electrolytic process. It produces a ductile product with great corrosion resistance.

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5. Matt nickel plating

Similar to satin nickel, this provides a dulled finish even more muted than the satin choice. Like most other forms of nickel plating, it protects from corrosion and wear and mostly comes down to aesthetic preferences.