There are many different options in plating, with each option providing specific properties to the base metal. For aerospace industries or for applications where the metal will be exposed to saltwater or fresh water, or a combination of both, the Federals Standard for cadmium plating is QQ-P-416.
There are many different alloys that can be cadmium plated to a variety of standards, including QQ-P-416. It will create a finish on the alloy, typically aluminum or stainless steel but also brass, steel, and cast iron. It has a bright, shiny, lustrous look that is white to silver in color and resembles zinc plating on many alloys.
Chromates can be applied to give a color to the cadmium plating. This can include yellow, olive drab colored and black as well as a clear option. With its compatibility with aluminum, including the alloys used in the aerospace industry, this is often used as a primer for painting, adding superior corrosion resistance to other options.
Additional Benefits
Using the QQ-P-416 standards for cadmium plating is more than just for surface protection and aesthetic appearance. The plating increases the conductivity of the surface, making the soldering process more effective. This is a very smooth, uniform plating that, when applied correctly, is consistent across all surfaces of the part or component.
It is also a way to increase lubricity and to prevent galling. Galling occurs when there is wear between two surfaces because of surface adhesion. With the plating, the two surfaces slide across each other with reduced galling effects, providing longer life for parts as well as increased performance.
According to the federal standard, there are different types and classes of cadmium plating. The types categorize the plating and supplementation. The class designation provides information as to their minimum thickness of the plating required for particular applications.
