The optimal process can be accurately selected by synthesizing the functional requirements, usage environment and cost budget.
Author: Anna
I. Typical application scenarios
1. Priority selection of nickel plating occasions
Precision electronic components: such as connectors, PCB contacts, the use of nickel layer conductivity (resistivity 6.9μΩ-cm) and resistance to sulfide corrosion characteristics
Food contact parts: kitchenware, food machinery parts, nickel layer in line with food safety standards and sweat corrosion resistance
Medium and high-end decorative parts: coins, lamps and lanterns accessories, balancing the cost and aesthetic requirements
2. Preferred applications for chrome plating
Highly abrasive tools: wrenches, molds, hard chrome plating (thickness 50-300μm) to enhance service life.
Automotive/appliance decoration: door handles, faucets, using the mirror effect (reflectivity of 70%-85%) to enhance product quality
Functional enhancement: hydraulic rods, bearings, reduce friction coefficient by chrome plating (can be reduced by 30%-50%)
II. Selection decision
Demand Prioritization Judgment
If aesthetics + moderate protection is the main concern → choose nickel-plated (sufficient budget) or galvanized (limited budget).
For high hardness/wear resistance → Chrome plating is a must.
Evaluation of environmental suitability
Exposure to strong acids/salt spray → nickel plating preferred (better chemical resistance)
Exposure to frequent friction scenarios → chrome plating preferred
Cost sensitivity analysis
Budget ≤10 RMB/㎡ → Galvanized
Budget 10-30 RMB/㎡ → Nickel plating
Budget ≥30 RMB/㎡ → chrome plating
III. Precautions
Pre-chrome plating treatment: copper or nickel plating is required as an intermediate layer, otherwise it is easy for the plating layer to fall off.
Thickness control of nickel plating: 0.1-0.3μm is recommended for decorative layer, and 5-10μm is required for functional layer.
Environmental requirements: chromium plating produces hexavalent chromium wastewater needs special treatment, nickel plating is easier to meet RoHS standards.
The optimal process can be accurately selected by synthesizing the functional requirements, usage environment and cost budget.