The term electroless nickel plating refers to that process whereby a dense coating of nickel-phosphorus alloy is uniformly deposited on a metallic substrate without the use of electricity. The primary advantage of this process is its perfect "throwing" power.

Unlike electrolytically deposited coatings ,deposits can be made on any surface to which the solution has free access. In addition, the electroless coating is extremely uniform and will not generate excessive buildup on corners or projections.

Typical thickness of electroless nickel plating can be as thin as .0005" to upwards of .010". Tolerancing is dependent upon selected plating thickness.

Electroless Nickel coatings are extremely uniform regardless of the parts geometry, it provides exceptional wear resistance, lubricity, hardness and corrosion resistance to a broad range of base materials, including non-conductors. These unique properties of the coating are achieved non-electrically through metal ion exchange by chemical reduction in a hot aqueous solution. The resulting alloy is principally composed of nickel and phosphorous. The properties of EN coatings allow the use of alternative materials to effect economies with increased corrosion and wear resistance.

The steadily increasing use of electroless nickel plating can be attributed to marked improvements in solution stability, pretreatment cycles, reducing agents and the equipment used.

One of the major characteristics making its use more prevalent is the ability of the process to provide uniform thickness deposits in deep recesses, bores and blind holes. Other characteristics are: excellent corrosion, wear and abrasion resistance, ductility, lubricity, solderability, electrical conductivity and hardness.

"Electroless Nickel" is a generic term describing the deposition of an alloy composed principally of nickel and phosphorous. Deposition of the alloy is achieved by chemical reduction. The process is nonelectrolytic. Reduction of the nickel alloy occurs during immersion of an activated surface into a hot aqueous solution.