Plating metals such as nickel and tin are used to protect and improve the surface of many products, from electronics to car parts. Both types of plating offer benefits, so let’s look at five major ways in which nickel plating and tin plating are different.
1. Electrical conductivity
Tin is a better conductor of electricity than nickel; as a result, tin plating is often used on wires, circuit boards, and connectors, as it helps make sure electricity flows easily without a lot of resistance. Nickel plating is also conductive, but not as much as tin. Nickel is sometimes used in electronics, but usually where durability is more important than maximum conductivity.
2. Cost
Tin plating is generally cheaper than nickel plating. As tin is less expensive and easier to apply, it is often the better choice for large projects or mass production, especially when keeping costs low is important.
3. Protection and durability
Nickel plating is harder and more durable than tin, as it forms a tough barrier that protects the metal underneath from wear and corrosion. Tin plating is softer and can wear away more quickly; however, tin still provides excellent protection against corrosion, especially from water and moisture.
In electroless nickel plating, which is provided by surface treatments specialists such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/plating/electroless-nickel-plating/, a metal object is coated with a layer of nickel without electricity.
4. Corrosion resistance
Both nickel and tin plating help protect metals from corrosion, but they do it in different ways. Nickel forms a strong, tough coating, keeping moisture and chemicals away from the base metal. It is highly resistant to wear and rust over time.
Tin plating is also very good at stopping corrosion, especially from water and oxygen. Tin creates a protective layer that prevents rust, making it excellent for electrical parts and food containers.
5. Applications
Nickel plating is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and jewellery, where both looks and strength matter.
Tin plating is used mainly in industries where corrosion resistance is the top priority, such as electronics, food packaging, and electrical connectors.
