Many factors can determine the cost for a plating job. It is important to know the cost factors so you can specify your work in the best possible way and compare quotes.
Alloy Composition
The higher percentage of nickel in the bath (such as a 12 – 15% nickel alloy) can be used to give better corrosion resistance but is more expensive as a raw material. The plater should be asked what percentage of nickel is in the bath that is recommended for the application.
Part Geometry and Surface Area
Larger surface areas require more material and longer tank time. Parts with complex shapes, deep bores and blind holes are more labour-intensive because it is more difficult to distribute the plating solution. Additional time may be required to obtain an even deposit in these areas.
Deposit Thickness
A thick coating requires more material and is time-consuming to process. If a drawing specifies an 8 – 10µm layer whereas a 5µm layer would be sufficient for the required protection, then the extra layer will incur unnecessary costs.
Pre-treatment and Masking
Additional labour charges are required for labour intensive pretreatment such as degreasing, acid etching and boring and then masking up bores for zinc nickel plating.
Compliance Requirements
Trivalent passivation and the restricted substances as stated by product compliance requirements for surface-treated components add a further step to the plate treatment, which will cost.
Batch Size
Smaller runs cost more per part. Setup time is spread over fewer parts.
There is more on Zinc Nickel Plating at www.swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/zinc-nickel-alloy-plating/.
Getting the spec right from the start is the simplest way to keep plating costs in check.
