Cadmium plating has long been used to protect marine, aerospace and automotive components from wear and corrosion, however regular exposure to cadmium can harm human health and the environment, so many industry sectors have turned to a safer and more sustainable alternative – zinc nickel plating.
Why cadmium is problematic
Cadmium is a carcinogenic heavy metal that can induce oxidative stress, cause irreversible organ damage and cancer. It is also harmful when it leaches into the environment, threatening ecosystems and contaminating crops. Though its anti-corrosive qualities are impressive, they are not worth the risk to human health.
Zinc nickel plating is a great alternative
Nick nickel plating is a much safer alternative for both workers and the environment. Both alloys are considerably less damaging while still offering exceptional protection against corrosion and wear when treated components are exposed to challenging environmental conditions, including salt water, humidity, high temperatures and moisture.
In fact, tests have proven that zinc nickel plated substrates often outperform cadmium plated substrates in terms of lubricity and electromagnetic shielding.
Electromagnetic Shielding
What is zinc nickel plating?
Performed by professionals such as www.swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/zinc-nickel-alloy-plating/, zinc nickel plating is a process that uses a chemical bath to apply a zinc nickel alloy coating to components that will be used by industrial sectors including aerospace, defence and marine.
When components such as brake parts and landing gear are treated with zinc nickel plating, their longevity is improved and maintenance is reduced, representing a sound return on investment and protecting workers and the environment.
