So I got this F1 Nickel plated a few months ago by a local place to see what was up with the whole process, different types of plating, whats best for what we do, etc, etc. It sat for a while and I never got to finish fully putting this particular surface finish through its paces. This is ELECTRO-LESS Nickel. It is different that electrolytic which leaves more of an uneven finish in the corners and pits. Electro-less leaves a much more uniform finish and it is consistently even throughout the part. It's also a thinner layer of nickel that is left.
The surface finish is really the concern and dictates what process to use as any imperfections in the finish can be magnified. Surface prep is key for sure.
This light finish is more of gunmetal type finish slightly dull, but really looks nice overall witht eh way we prepped it I think. I am doing some load testing with it first to make some determinations about coating internals before going ahead with it on all the pots I make....but this could be thel deal if testing goes OK. I wont sacrifice the perf of the pot for some bs plating and I never was a huge fan of it ot begin with There are alot of ways around putting plating in specific areas of the pot, thats not an issue. It's wether or not it is worth it to even do so. Needs to be tested so we'll see soon
First ever pictured nickel F1?? I know some guys have seen this at my shop 3 months ago so you don't count lol but I have yet to see a plated pic of one on the internet though...no??