Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


-----

Electroless Nickel on Aluminum for Solderability

I'm looking for a plating spec to apply electroless nickel to aluminum to allow soldering to the aluminum. In particular, what thickness range and phosphorus content works well? Thanks, Marty Albini Strategix ID

Marty Albini
- Bozeman, MT, USA
2000

---

Marty, the thickness and phosphorus content really depend on the service life of the part. If you look at either the commercial or military version of the of the Electroless Nickel spec. MIL-C-26074 [on DLA] it will break down the various classifications. We have customers that like both high and medium phosphorus content coatings....the latter being brighter, faster and less corrosion resistant. Low phosphorus coatings are usually reserved for low resistivity applications. Contact a supplier of Electroless Nickel chemistry and they'll be able to give you some ideas this too.

Jim Conner
Anoplex Software

Mabank, Texas USA

2000