Nickel is one of the most widely used metals in the world. It is found in everything from kitchen sinks and cutlery to batteries, coins and aircraft engines. So what is it about nickel that makes it so useful?
It Resists Corrosion
Nickel is highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation, and it copes well with heat. This is why it is so often used to coat or plate other metals to protect them, and why it is a key ingredient in many alloys.
It Makes Stainless Steel
Most of the nickel produced around the world is used to make stainless steel. Adding nickel to steel, along with chromium, makes it tougher, easier to shape and more resistant to corrosion. That is why so many everyday items, from sinks to surgical instruments, are made from nickel-containing stainless steel.
Alloys and Batteries
Nickel is also used in special alloys for jet engines and power stations, where parts must withstand very high temperatures. It is increasingly important in rechargeable batteries, including those used in many electric vehicles.
Nickel Coatings
Nickel plating and nickel composite coatings are used to make parts harder wearing and more resistant to corrosion. For more information on Nickel Composites, visit https://www.poeton.co.uk/advanced-treatments/apticote-480-advanced-nickel-composite/. If you want to use nickel to coat your products, consider a specialist in nickel coating, such as Poeton.