Hinge nickel plating

11 Feb.,2025

Hinge nickel plating refers to the process of depositing a layer of nickel metal or nickel alloy on the surface of hinges (hinges) using electroplating technology to enhance their surface hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and aesthetics.

 

Author: Anna

 

Hinge nickel plating refers to the process of depositing a layer of nickel metal or nickel alloy on the surface of hinges (hinges) using electroplating technology to enhance their surface hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and aesthetics. Compared to zinc plating, nickel plating provides better corrosion resistance and a smoother surface, and is suitable for applications requiring higher corrosion resistance and appearance. The following is the basic process flow of nickel plating on Hopetail:

 

Pre-treatment: This includes steps such as degreasing, descaling, pickling, etc. to ensure that the surface of the hinge is clean and free of oil, oxidized skin and other impurities so that the nickel layer can adhere well.

 

Pre-plating activation: Activation treatment may be required, such as soaking with a dilute acid solution, to increase the activity of the substrate surface, which is conducive to the subsequent plating reaction.

 

Electroplating nickel: The pretreated hinge is used as the cathode and placed in a plating solution containing nickel salts (e.g. nickel sulfate). Through the electrolysis process, nickel ions are reduced and deposited on the surface of the hinge to form a nickel layer. Current density, solution composition and plating time can be adjusted as needed to control the thickness and characteristics of the nickel layer.

 

Post-treatment: After plating is completed, cleaning is performed to remove residual plating solution, followed by possible passivation to increase corrosion resistance and gloss as needed, and finally drying.

 

Inspection: The plated hinges are inspected for quality, including nickel layer thickness, uniformity, corrosion resistance, and appearance to ensure that the product meets established standards.

 

Electroplated nickel can be categorized into different types, such as bright nickel, semi-gloss nickel, hard nickel, etc., which target different functional requirements. Bright nickel provides a mirror-like luster and is suitable for products with high decorative requirements; hard nickel contains a small amount of other elements (e.g. cobalt, sulfur, etc.) to enhance hardness and abrasion resistance, and is suitable for applications subjected to high wear and tear.

 

Overall, nickel plating of hinges is an effective way to enhance the performance and extend the service life of hinges, and is particularly suitable for furniture, doors and windows, automobiles, and precision machinery and equipment.