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Cadmium Replacement Plating: Safer Surface Finishing for High-Performance Applications

Trusted Expertise from EC Williams

As regulations tighten and industries demand safer solutions, cadmium replacement plating has become a priority for OEMs and component manufacturers. At EC Williams, we offer an advanced alternative: zinc nickel alloy plating.

Our process delivers the same functional performance as cadmium – without the toxicity. With decades of innovation in electroplating and ongoing investment in greener technologies, we’re proud to lead the industry in sustainable, RoHS-compliant cadmium replacement coatings.

Why Is Cadmium Being Replaced?

Cadmium has historically been used in electroplating for its:

  • Excellent corrosion resistance.
  • Natural lubricity.
  • Compatibility with aluminium.

These properties made it especially useful in the aerospace industry, where aluminium parts are joined using cadmium-plated fasteners.

But cadmium is highly toxic. Exposure during production or disposal poses environmental and health risks. That’s why regulations such as RoHS and REACH are pushing manufacturers to find viable substitutes.

Zinc Nickel: A Superior Cadmium Alternative

At EC Williams, we’ve tested and validated zinc nickel alloy coatings as a high-performance, cadmium-free solution. Here’s why it’s the replacement of choice:

1. Corrosion Resistance

Our zinc nickel coatings withstand 1000+ hours of salt spray testing, matching or exceeding cadmium’s corrosion protection in real-world conditions.

2. Aluminium Compatibility

Unlike zinc, zinc nickel does not trigger galvanic corrosion when in contact with aluminium. That makes it ideal for aerospace and automotive aluminium assemblies.

3. Natural Lubricity

The alloy retains a smooth finish that supports assembly torque requirements, reducing galling and mechanical failure risks.

4. RoHS & REACH Compliant

Zinc nickel plating from EC Williams contains no cadmium or hexavalent chrome, making it safe and compliant for global manufacturing use.

Why Choose EC Williams for Cadmium Replacements?

1. Research-Backed Innovation

We’re actively involved in research to develop even more efficient and environmentally friendly zinc nickel processes. Our trials include ionic liquids and pulse rectification – advancing both sustainability and coating control.

2. Batch Consistency

Every zinc nickel finish is tested and verified to meet stringent plating standards, including:

  • Consistent alloy ratios.
  • Surface morphology control.
  • Customised post-treatment (passivation/topcoat).
  • Full traceability per part/batch.

3. Aerospace & Automotive Ready

We’ve been supplying European automotive OEMs with zinc nickel coatings for over a decade. Our plating lines are now specified by manufacturers as their cadmium alternative of choice.

Applications of Cadmium Replacement Plating

  • Aerospace fasteners and brackets.
  • Automotive fuel, brake, and chassis components.
  • Military-grade connectors and hardware.
  • Precision-engineered parts for harsh environments.

If your project involves safety-critical components or stringent corrosion performance, zinc nickel plating is a proven solution.

 

FAQs

1. What is the best alternative to cadmium plating for aerospace components?

Zinc nickel alloy plating offers equivalent corrosion resistance, aluminium compatibility, and durability – without the environmental risks of cadmium.

2. Is zinc nickel plating compliant with RoHS and REACH?

Yes. EC Williams’ zinc nickel finishes are fully compliant with RoHS and REACH regulations and contain no toxic cadmium or hexavalent chrome.

3. Can EC Williams provide plating for cadmium-restricted applications?

Absolutely. We work closely with aerospace, defence, and automotive clients to provide cadmium-free solutions that meet performance and compliance needs.

4. Does zinc nickel plating offer the same corrosion resistance as cadmium?

Yes. When correctly applied and passivated, zinc nickel can exceed 1000 hours of salt spray resistance, meeting or surpassing cadmium standards.

5. What industries require cadmium replacements in surface finishing?

Aerospace, automotive, defence, and electronics are shifting to cadmium-free processes due to environmental regulation and component safety concerns.

Talk to EC Williams About Safer Plating Solutions

Looking to move away from cadmium while maintaining performance?

Call: 0121 236 2524
Email: Email: plating@ecwilliams.co.uk
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