To overcome durability and chemical compatibility challenges, many construction OEMs are turning to electroless nickel plated fittings and valves in fuel and other fluid conveyance systems. Electroless nickel plating is a chemical process in which a layer of nickel is applied to a surface without the use of an electrical current.
The reliability and durability of fluid conveyance systems is paramount for construction equipment. The components used must withstand harsh conditions such as moisture, dirt, chemicals and abrasive materials. To add a new challenge for fluid conveyance systems, many OEMs are exploring the usage of biodiesel fuels as a replacement to traditional diesel fuel. The combination of alcohol with vegetable oil, animal fat or recycled cooking grease that creates most biodiesel compounds creates a fluid that causes an incompatibility with most standard available fuel line materials.
To overcome these durability and chemical compatibility challenges, many construction OEMs are turning to electroless nickel plated fittings and valves in fuel and other fluid conveyance systems. Electroless nickel plating is a chemical process in which a layer of nickel is applied to a surface without the use of an electrical current. The resulting coating is much more uniform and durable when compared to traditional electroplating processes.
The nickel layer acts as a barrier, protecting the brass body from exposure to moisture and other corrosive substances. Construction equipment gets exposed to a myriad of corrosive materials, such as water, salt and various chemicals daily. The corrosive protection offered by electroless nickel plating can extend the lifespan of fluid conveyance components leading to lower maintenance costs.
Construction equipment is constantly exposed to abrasive materials like dirt, sand, gravel and rocks. Over time, these materials can cause damage to vial components. Electroless nickel plating provides an extra layer of protection, which allows vital fluid conveyance fittings to maintain their integrity and functionality over a longer period.
Traditional electroplating methods tend to get applied unevenly on complex shapes, like a 90 ball valve. The chemical makeup of an electroless nickel plating coating allows the coating to adhere in an even layer, even on complex shapes.
The chemical compounds found in biodiesel, and lesser extent diesel, fuels create challenges for selecting the right fitting for fuel systems. When the fuel compounds are introduced to certain metals, bronze, tin, lead and zinc primarily, the metal starts to breakdown, creating an insoluble fuel gel or salt. The result is this insoluble fuel gel can lead to a clogged fuel system. To prevent this, the wetted areas of the fitting can be electroless nickel plated to prevent this detrimental chemical reaction.
To provide more durable fluid conveyance systems, many OEMs turn to utilizing stainless steel fittings and valves in place of brass. While stainless steel offers excellent chemical compatibility, the up-front cost of the fittings and valves is significantly high. Electroless nickel plating is applied to brass bodied fittings and valves and only on the parts that encounter fluids. The body material and the way the component is plated offer a much more cost-effective solution.
Parker Fluid System Connectors (FSC) Division offers an extensive range of electroless nickel plated fittings and valves. Parker can apply electroless nickel plating to any of our standard brass fittings or valves. Our team of engineers can also design a custom fitting with electroless nickel plating to meet your unique application.
Incorporating electroless nickel plated fittings into construction equipment can provide a multitude of benefits, from enhanced durability and wear resistance to cost savings and improved performance. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the demand for reliable and long-lasting equipment will only grow. By choosing electroless nickel plating, manufacturers and operators can ensure that their equipment meets the challenges of the job site while maximizing efficiency and minimizing downtime.
This article was previously featured on Parker's blog.
Parker is the global leader in motion and control technologies, partnering with customers to solve engineering challenges. With broad capabilities across the industrial market, Parker designs precision-engineered solutions and fluid conveyance products – including hoses, fittings, tubing, filtration, and engineered assemblies that improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability—helping to create a cleaner, safer world.
To request a quote, please login to your existing account or register a new one. This helps us provide you with a personalized experience and keep track of your requests.
