20 Aug Choosing the Right Plating for Industrial Components
In aerospace, defense, and manufacturing, the durability of industrial equipment is a key consideration. Corrosion, abrasion, and metal fatigue can cause mechanical failure, leading to costly downtime and repairs.
The daily wear on hydraulic, rotating, or high-friction parts can drastically shorten the service life of industrial equipment. However, choosing the right type of metal plating can make critical components last longer and work better.
The right plating can:
- Enhance wear resistance
- Reduce friction
- Prevent corrosion
- Prevent premature failure
- Save on maintenance costs
Let’s compare the most durable industrial coatings, and the types of parts they can improve.
Top Four Most Durable Coatings for Industrial Parts
1. Electroless Nickel Plating
Electroless nickel is ideal for components with complex geometries because of its uniform thickness. Its hardness and excellent corrosion resistance offer strong protection in abrasive settings.
Electroless nickel plating is best for:
- Hydraulic cylinders
- Pumps
- Valves
- Molds
- Tools
2. Hard Chrome Plating
Known for its exceptional hardness and low coefficient of friction, hard chrome performs well in high-speed and high-load applications.
Hard chrome plating is best for:
- Pistons
- Gears
- Bearings
- Rollers
3. Composite Diamond Coating®
Offering superior wear resistance, Composite Diamond Coating® combines electroless nickel plating with fine diamond particles. It creates a surface that can withstand extreme abrasion and heat while maintaining good lubricity.
Composite Diamond Coating® is best for:
- High-speed machinery
- Parts that are frequently exposed to severe abrasion
4. Cadmium Coating
Corrosion resistance is often just as important as wear resistance—especially in aerospace and military applications.
Cadmium plating is best for:
- Aerospace fasteners
- Connectors
- Marine equipment
How to Select the Best Plating for Industrial Components
Consider the Operating Environment
Will the component be exposed to saltwater, chemicals, or high heat? Cadmium plating offers excellent protection for parts that must withstand salt spray or high-altitude conditions.
Calculate Load and Stress
How much mechanical wear will the surface endure? Composite Diamond Coating® is the go-to for extremely abrasive environments. This advanced coating is ideal for cutting tools, drills, and equipment used for mining or machining.
Choose a Compatible Material
Not all coatings are compatible with all base metals. The most versatile option is electroless nickel. It can be applied to a wide variety of substrates, including aluminum, copper, and even plastics, with proper pre-treatment.
Consider the Thickness of the Coating
If your components have tight dimensions, plating thickness must be controlled precisely. Electroless nickel offers consistent thickness, even on internal surfaces. And hard chrome can be applied in thicker layers for extended durability.
High Quality Industrial Plating Services in Phoenix, AZ
The longevity and performance of industrial components depend on the quality of their surface treatments. At CRC Surface Technologies, we offer a full range of metal plating options for industrial components—including electroless nickel, hard chrome, Composite Diamond Coating®, and cadmium.
Give us a call at 602-253-4175 to learn more, or send a message to rfq@chemresearchco.com to request a quote.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/20/2025). Photo by Chevanon Photography on Pexels