The famous aeroplane makers, Boeing, have found what seems to be the “Lightest Metal Ever” known as microlattice. This is a material which is 99.9% air! Developed in California, it is a way for planes and even rockets to have their weight reduced. This 3D open cellular polymer structure will reduce the amount of fuel a plane needs to use during take off, flying and landing. Currently, Boeing are looking in to using this structure internally on their planes in areas such as the overhead compartments, under the floor and in other fixtures to create a modern internal environment for passengers.
Boeing and Electroless Nickel Plating
Researchers decided that the 3D open cellular polymer structure should be coated with electroless nickel plating, in order to give the structure the required strength, because the web of nickel-phosphorus alloy lattice tubes are only just 100 nanometres thick. The theory behind using this new structure coated with electroless nickel plating is a lot more advanced in the theory of aeronautical engineering, so has not been trialed yet for space-bound vehicles. However, it is known that it would be used for exactly the same weight saving reasons to go to space, but also because it has the ability to compress, too, which could mean that objects sent in to space could expand after launch, reducing cargo hold space. More, evidence will be needed though, before this is trialled as part of a space-bound launch, but nevertheless is a very exciting move forward in science.
Electroless Nickel Plating
Electroless nickel plating as a high quality, cost effective solution for metal coating, elongating the life of a component dramatically, because it leaves an equal thickness metal layer deposit all over the surface of a component, no matter what size or shape it is. It is ideal for use in harsh environment as it is corrosion resistant, rust is prevented from forming and does not chip or flake which reduces the cost and frequency of repairs and replacement needed. Electroless nickel plating can be hardened up to 950vhn, is self-lubricating and is non-magnetic. These are just some of the advantages of electroless nickel plating. If you would like to find out more then you can find out more by contacting us, the leading suppliers of electroless nickel plating.
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us are experts in the process of electroless nickel plating (ENP) and have a friendly and professional team who are more than happy to help you with any query you may have at any time. If electroless nickel plating is something you or your business would like to find out more about, then please contact us on our phone number, alternatively you can click here to go directly to our website. Our website contains information about other services we provide, such as diffused nickel plating, copper plating, shot blasting and heat treatment.