Measuring Nickel Plating Thickness 2

[Kwan]

I've run across this a couple times now and am wondering if there is a non-destructive method to measure the thickness of the nickel plate (this is a repair to a bore)? The base material in this particular case is 30NiCrMo16-6. This is a landing gear part with a nickel repair (without paperwork) and I need to verify nickel thickness.

If there exists such a method could it be used on other base metals? Please forgive me for my ignorance. I usually deal with aluminum structure.

 

[CoryPad]

Nickel over what? If the base material is ferromagnetic, then try this:

http://www.defelsko.com/pt6kFR.html

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[Kwan]

Thanks Cory! My application right now is nickel over 30NiCrMo16-6 base metal. I do not think there is any plating between the nickel and base metal.

I'll look into your suggestion.

 

[Kwan]

I've checked on the instrument that Cory suggested. This instrument if effective for measuring electroless nickel thickness if the phosphorus content is greater than 8%. The nickel plate I'm dealing with is partially magnetic on ferrous base metal.

Is there any other method to measure nickel thickness without using destructive methods?

Any help is greatly appreciated

 

[NickE]

I do believe that ultrasonic devices are available to measure coating thickness.

http://www.oicm.com/applications.php

I'm sure it's not cheap but this can do the job surely:

http://www.oxford-instruments.com/ANLPDP743.htm

 

[Kwan]

Thanks NickE,

This looks promising. I'll look into these. I appreciate your input.

 

[yates]

The usual induction thickness meters will be thrown by the magnetic Nickel. X-ray fluorescence would be the normal method.