Cyanide Copper Alternative
Question: We want to plate electroless nickel directly onto zincated aluminum.
Share
Question:
We want to plate electroless nickel directly onto zincated aluminum. Can this be done or must we first plate with a cyanide copper strike? D. D.
Answer:
Yes, you can plate directly on zincated aluminum with electroless nickel. To improve adhesion, the parts should undergo a low-temperature bake after the plating is completed.
If you decide, instead, to use a copper strike, you should be aware that a number of vendors have non-cyanide alkaline copper strike baths that work very well.
RELATED CONTENT
-
Aluminum Anodizing
Types of anodizing, processes, equipment selection and tank construction.
-
Stripping of Plated Finishes
The processes, chemicals and equipment, plus control and troubleshooting.
-
Masking for Surface Finishing
Masking is employed in most any metal finishing operation where only a specifically defined area of the surface of a part must be exposed to a process. Conversely, masking may be employed on a surface where treatment is either not required or must be avoided. This article covers the many aspects of masking for metal finishing, including applications, methods and the various types of masking employed.
