Химическое никелирование в домашних условиях, в гараже / аналог хромирования / аналог цинкования

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on chemical nickel plating, a process that serves as an alternative to chroming and galvanizing. Whether you're looking to enhance the corrosion resistance of metal parts or simply want to experiment with metal finishing in your garage, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps and materials.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Materials

Before starting the chemical nickel plating process, ensure you have all the required materials:

• Nickel sulfate: For the nickel plating solution.
• Nickel chloride: To aid in the plating process.
• Boric acid: Used to buffer the solution.
• Deionized water: Essential for preparing the plating solution.
• Power supply: A DC power source for electroplating.
• Anode materials: Typically, pure nickel or nickel alloy.
• Cleaning agents: For cleaning the metal parts before plating.
• Safety gear: Gloves, goggles, and a mask for protection against chemicals.

Step 2: Prepare the Metal Surface

Proper surface preparation is critical for effective plating. Follow these sub-steps:

1. Clean the Metal: Use a degreaser to remove oil and grease from the surface.
2. Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure no cleaning agents remain on the metal.
3. Sand or Polish: If necessary, sand or polish the surface to ensure it's smooth and free of rust.
4. Final Rinse: Use deionized water for the final rinse to avoid any contaminants.

Step 3: Prepare the Plating Solution

Creating the right plating solution is crucial for successful nickel plating. Here’s how to do it:

1. Mixing the Solution:
   • Combine nickel sulfate, nickel chloride, and boric acid in deionized water.
   • A common ratio can be:
     • 240 grams of nickel sulfate per liter of water
     • 60 grams of nickel chloride per liter of water
     • 30 grams of boric acid per liter of water
2. Adjust pH: Use a pH meter to ensure the solution is at the desired pH level (typically around 4.5-5.0).

Step 4: Set Up the Electroplating System

Now that you have your plating solution ready, set up your electroplating system:

1. Connect the Power Supply:
   • Attach the positive lead to the anode and the negative lead to the metal part you want to plate.
2. Immerse the Metal Part: Place the cleaned metal part into the plating solution, ensuring it is fully submerged.
3. Power On: Turn on the power supply and set it to the desired voltage (usually between 2-5 volts).

Step 5: Monitor the Plating Process

During the plating process, keep an eye on the following:

• Time: The plating process can take from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the thickness desired.
• Current Density: Monitor the current to ensure it stays within the recommended range (typically around 2-10 A/dm²).
• Temperature: Maintain the solution temperature (generally around 50-60°C) for optimal plating conditions.

Step 6: Rinse and Finish

Once the desired plating thickness is achieved, follow these final steps:

1. Remove the Metal Part: Carefully take the plated part out of the solution.
2. Rinse with Deionized Water: Remove any residue from the plating solution.
3. Dry the Part: Use a clean cloth or let it air dry.
4. Optional Polishing: For a shinier finish, you can polish the plated part.

Conclusion

Chemical nickel plating is a valuable skill that can enhance the durability and aesthetic of metal parts. By following these steps—gathering materials, preparing surfaces, mixing solutions, and monitoring the plating process—you can achieve professional-quality results at home. Always prioritize safety and ensure proper handling of chemicals. Happy plating!