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All Springer/NP/PCP Air Gun Discussion General => Machine Shop Talk & AG Parts Machining => Topic started by: 2K1TJ on April 05, 2018, 05:48:25 PM

Title: Nickel plating
Post by: 2K1TJ on April 05, 2018, 05:48:25 PM
Anybody here know of a budget-friendly business that offers nickel plating for small parts? Or a member that has a side business/hobby?

Feel free to move this if needed. I wasn't sure where I should post it.
Title: Re: Nickel plating
Post by: Hoosier Daddy on April 05, 2018, 07:51:19 PM
I have used this place for "electroless nickel" plating of critical machine parts at work.
Very gun friendly....
http://frankeplatingworks.com/plating-services/ (http://frankeplatingworks.com/plating-services/)
Title: Re: Nickel plating
Post by: Roadworthy on April 05, 2018, 11:25:56 PM
Nickel plating is not difficult to do at home.  Normally the piece is first plated with copper - after a thorough cleaning of course.

You may leave the piece plated in nickel or use that as a foundation for chrome plating.

Check out the process in various You Tube videos.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88zDNAzXNuY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88zDNAzXNuY)
Title: Re: Nickel plating
Post by: PCPhack on April 06, 2018, 12:15:52 AM
I have done some nickel plating of copper bus bars at home. It's pretty easy to get into. I have a variable output power supply, but you could probably get by with an old wall wart. Buy some pure nickel, some vinegar, add a pinch of salt, and make some nickel solution. Or you can buy some better quality chemicals with brighteners, and etc.
Title: Re: Nickel plating
Post by: Hoosier Daddy on April 06, 2018, 06:57:16 AM
There was a place called CopyCad selling supplies for doing it at home.

Found it... https://www.caswellplating.com/ (https://www.caswellplating.com/)
Title: Re: Nickel plating
Post by: 2K1TJ on April 06, 2018, 10:07:05 PM
Thanks, guys.

Yeah, I have looked into it, and it doesn't sound too complicated. But I'm afraid it'll turn into another hobby, which will take up more bench space, and of course more $$$!

After thinking about it, I'll probably end up giving it a try.
Title: Re: Nickel plating
Post by: PCPhack on April 07, 2018, 12:28:59 AM
Hahaha. That's funny because I just build yet another bench a few weeks ago due to that problem. I have 3 now.