Alkaline Zinc-Nickel Plating Solution – Uniform Layer Thickness and Enhanced Corrosion Protection
The alkaline zinc-nickel plating solution contains approximately 14% nickel, offering significantly improved corrosion protection compared to pure zinc. It provides uniform layer thickness over a wide current density range and is free from cyanides. This is particularly important for workpieces that are deformed after coating, as a uniform layer thickness prevents the coating from flaking. The solution is also more flexible (ductile) than acid-based zinc-nickel solutions while maintaining the same corrosion resistance. The satin-matte deposit further enhances corrosion protection, as glossy deposits tend to be less resistant.
Note:
The zinc-nickel plating solution is not a replacement for a nickel layer, which serves as a diffusion barrier.
Application Area:
The alkaline zinc-nickel plating solution is used wherever high corrosion protection and uniform layer thickness are required. With its nickel content of around 14%, it provides up to five times more corrosion protection than pure zinc plating solution and ensures optimal cathodic protection. The post-treatment of workpieces, such as chromating or painting, is similar to conventional zinc coating. A key advantage is the consistent nickel content over a wide current density range.
Suitable Materials:
The zinc-nickel plating solution is suitable for the following metals:
- Iron
- Steel
- Copper
- Brass
- Stainless steel (pre-treatment with nickel strike required)
- Aluminum (pre-treatment with aluminum activator required)
Chromium and titanium are not suitable.
Application Instructions:
This plating solution can be used in both bath plating and pen plating (tampon plating). Stainless steel and aluminum require special pre-treatment. The solution can be used at room temperature but can also be easily heated up to 60°C. The satin-matte layer provides an excellent base for further coatings, such as painting.
Technical Parameters (please test, values may vary):
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Bath plating: 2.2-4.5V (approx. 3.5V recommended at 10 cm distance)
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Pen plating: 2.5-7V (approx. 5V recommended)
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Current density: 0.9-8A/dm² (up to 12A/dm² with bath movement)
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Working temperature: 15-35°C
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Deposition rate: approx. 0.6 µm/min at 4A/dm² and 20°C
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pH value: 14
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Anodes: Nickel, zinc (alternatively platinum-coated titanium, graphite)
Nickel or zinc anodes are recommended. When using a zinc anode, the lifespan of the solution is extended, but the nickel content in the solution gradually decreases, turning it into a pure zinc plating solution.
Labelling of the mixture:
Zinc-nickel plating solution
(contains sodium hydroxide, diethylenetriamine, nickel sulfate, nickel dichloride, nickel sulfamate)
Signal word: Danger
H290 May be corrosive to metals.
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction.
H332 Harmful if inhaled.
H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
P101 If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.
P102 Keep out of reach of children.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P280 Wear protective gloves and eye/face protection.
P301+P330+P331 IF SWALLOWED: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water or shower.
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P310 Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.
P501 Do not discard content with household waste and forward for disposal according to regional/national Guidelines.
