about Zinc-Nickel Plating
ZINC NICKEL PLATING IS HIGHLY DURABLE
Zinc nickel plating can withstand more than 240 hours of salt spray before white rust begins to form, and can withstand more than 1,000 hours of salt spray before red rust appears. We also have special setups that will allow our process to meet all known OEM Cyclic and Kesternich requirements.
It should come as no surprise, then, that zinc nickel plating is the preferred metal finishing for automotive and industrial applications. Compared to other similar metal finishing options, zinc nickel plating is not only highly durable and sustainable but it’s also affordable, allowing companies to choose a cost-effective high-quality finish.

Zinc Nickel electroplating process is a proven and reliable method for taking an alkaline electrolyte and depositing nickel. Applied nickel percentage can vary based on OEM requirements (e.g. Ford WSS-M1P87 (12-16%), General Motors GMW4700 (5-15% or 10-17%), FCA PS.50031 (12-17%), Toyota TSH6532G (12-18%) or Honda HES D 2003 (6-16%). This Alkaline Zinc Nickel plating process forms a true alloy that is suited for maximizing the corrosion protection of steel substrates. Even after 24 hours of exposure to 120° C (250° F) followed by thermal shock, deposits are protected from corrosion. Deposits can also withstand 310° C (590° F) as a continuous service temperature.
Our Zinc Nickel finish is typically bright, burn free, and ready for our RoHS compliant trivalent passivates. Parts can be sealed for additional corrosion protection or left unsealed in preparation for additional finishes (e.g. E-coat).
Customers looking for a bondable rubber to metal application will find that our zinc nickel plating acts as an ideal base, is receptive to primer and adhesive, and offers a high level of corrosion resistance.
BENEFITS OF ZINC NICKEL PLATING
- Outstanding covering power and uniformity of plate distribution
- Even at high current densities, deposits are bright and burn-free
- Deposits are blister free and exhibit excellent adhesion characteristics
- When bent after plating, zinc-nickel plating deposits do not display any whiskers
- Even after thermal shock, deposits offer exceptional corrosion protection
- Minimal variation of nickel content as a function of current density
- Improved resistance against galvanic corrosion
- Ideal for bondable rubber to metal applications