Slippery Nickel: Electroless Nickel PTFE Plating

Electroless nickel PTFE, otherwise known as slippery nickel, is a composite nickel/PTFE coating that offers a huge range of benefits to a variety of industries. The main reason that nickel PTFE is so popular is due to its properties of low friction and self lubrication, making it a great choice for sliding wear applications and other instances where conventional lubricants cannot be used.

The Co-Deposition of Electroless Nickel PTFE

During the co-deposition process of nickel PTFE, Teflon particles are plated along with the electroless nickel and become part of the plated coating itself. This technique ensures that the plated coating has high lubricity throughout the life of the plated part, because as the coating wears, PTFE particles are exposed continuously. That means that the Teflon particles are present throughout the entire thickness of the coating.

Release Properties and Uniform Coverage

Nickel PTFE improves the “release” or anti stick properties of molds and dies due to its self lubricating properties. It also increases the efficiency of, and reduces the sound made by slides, bearings and cylinder or piston assemblies. This property also facilitates the reliable operation of moving parts when they are continuously exposed to solvents or are working in cryogenic temperatures. Nickel PTFE provides an exceptionally uniform coverage, including corners, threads and bores. There’s also no need for post-plating finishing.

Common Applications of Nickel PTFE

A comprehensive list of the common applications of nickel PTFE is published below.

  • Rubber and plastic molds
  • Transmission components
  • Core pins
  • Couplings
  • Slides
  • Frozen food molds
  • Camera shutters
  • Valve stems
  • Rotating cores
  • Fiber and yarn guides
  • Gears
  • Hydraulic cylinders
  • Fuel system components
  • Clutch components
  • Tablet punches
  • Pistons
  • Pump rotors
  • Bearings
  • Spray nozzles
  • Air caps
  • Security bolts
  • Pneumatic equipment
  • Hydraulic equipment
  • Shafts

What Substrates can Nickel PTFE be Applied to?

Nickel PTFE can be applied to a variety of substrates including copper alloys, titanium, aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel.

If you are looking for a metal coating that is self lubricating, corrosion resistant and wear resistant, Ni-PTFE is the perfect solution. Call us , email us at  or visit the contact page on our website to make an inquiry.