Letter 21020

Nickel plating removal [Florida] 

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I'm trying to strip nickel from a couple of improperly plated aluminum parts. The local chrome shop dipped it and removed the chrome, but told me to SAND and POLISH off the nickel! I've been able to carefully peel off some but not all of the nickel. Is there a chemical or electrochemical process for removing the nickel plating?

Thanks,

John Simpson
- SW Ranches, FL

Concentrated nitric acid will do it without destroying the alloy in most cases. You will need proper protective equipment and good air flow as it will emit NOx! For small areas, try a swab. It will last for a minute or so and then you will need another swab. Properly dispose of your refuse. It is hazardous.

James Watts
- FL

Try nitric acid say 50% by vol Be careful-- wear protective gear and avoid breathing fumes.

Geoff Whitelaw
- Port Melbourne, Vic., Australia

The large gunsmith supply companies carry a nickel stripper that works quite well. The parts that need to have the nickel removed just need to be immersed in the liquid. It's the best way I've found to remove nickel without a lot of polishing but it only comes in one gallon quantities so it's not meant for large jobs.

Brian F Bonser
custom weaponry - Stuart, FL, USA

I suggest go back to the local plating shop and teach them how to strip in the above mentioned nitric acid solution. I would strongly suggest that you do [not] mess with concentrated nitric and the hazardous waste you will produce once you load it with nickel.

Jon Quirt
- Minneapolis, MN

Just to let you guys know. I have successfully removed a lot of chrome and nickel with the techniques listed here. I'm lucky enough to have access to a large supply of sodium Hydroxide and Nitric acid. I have been using them for years at my Job. (with the proper training and safety gear). After buying an old motorcycle i was look into ways of removing the chrome, then nickel then polishing up the aluminum. and WOW...it worked great. That is AFTER I destroyed a small pc. trying to sand and pick it off.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

Brian

Brian Maty
- Scranton , Pa USA

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