Cadmium Plating
Cadmium plate gives excellent corrosion resistance in salt environments, natural lubricity and compatibility with aluminum. Cadmium is toxic, so its use is now largely limited to aerospace and defense.
Cadmium at a glance
| Specifications | AMS-QQ-P-416; ASTM B766 |
|---|---|
| Strengths | Salt-fog resistance, lubricity, galvanic match to aluminum |
| Regulation | Restricted by RoHS and REACH; OSHA exposure limits |
| Hydrogen risk | Electroplated: relief bake required on hard parts |
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Cadmium plating · aerospace and military
What it is
FIELD IDENTIFICATION
Cadmium plate gives excellent corrosion resistance in salt environments, natural lubricity and
compatibility with aluminum. Cadmium is toxic, so its use is now largely limited to aerospace and
defense.
CADMIUM
Cadmium plate (restricted)
Cadmium at a glance
Specifications
AMS-QQ-P-416; ASTM B766
Strengths
Salt-fog resistance, lubricity, galvanic match to aluminum
Regulation
Restricted by RoHS and REACH; OSHA exposure limits
Hydrogen risk
Electroplated: relief bake required on hard parts
Key points
Do not substitute zinc for cadmium on aerospace parts without engineering approval.
Governing standards: AMS-QQ-P-416; ASTM B766. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always take precedence
over this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-7AD6B8 · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/plating-coatings-finishes/cadmium-plating · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.
