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Military Plating In Houston | Aerospace & Defense Coating 

Valence Surface Technologies Eastman Operations Logo

1790 Hughes Landing Blvd Ste. 300, The Woodlands, TX 77380

Valence Eastman

In military and aerospace industries, failure is not an option. Every component—whether in fighter jets, naval vessels, or tactical ground vehicles—must withstand extreme conditions, high friction, and intense environmental exposure. That’s where high-performance plating and coatings come in.

 

At Valence Surface Technologies, we specialize in military-grade plating and aerospace coatings that enhance durability, corrosion resistance, and wear protection for mission-critical equipment. As Houston’s leading provider of NADCAP-certified, MIL-SPEC-compliant metal finishing solutions, we serve defense contractors, aerospace manufacturers, and government agencies with precision-engineered surface treatments that meet the highest industry standards.

 

Whether you need cadmium plating for aerospace fasteners, anodizing for aircraft structures, or electroless nickel for military-grade weaponry, our state-of-the-art coatings ensure peak performance, reliability, and compliance.

Sketch of Valence Surface Technologies Eastman location

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NDT
Eddy Current
Hardness/Conductivity
Magnetic Particle
Penetrant
Painting / Coatings
Bond Primer
Dry Lube
Fuel Tank Coating
Primer
Topcoat
Sol Gel
Additional Services
Abrasive Blast
Part Mark
Shot Peen
Chemical Processing Aluminum
Anodize – Boric Sulfuric
Anodize Phosphoric (PAA)
Anodize – Type I Chromic
Anodize – Type II Sulfuric
Chemical Film – Type 1 (Chromicoat L25)
Chemical Film – Type 1 (Alodine 1132)
Chemical Film – Type 2 (Chemeon TCPHF)
Chemical Processing Hard Metals
Passivation Type I, II, III
Passivation Type VI
Titanium Etch (Pickle)

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Valence News

Military Plating Houston

What Is Aerospace Military Plating?

Aerospace military plating refers to a specialized surface finishing process designed to enhance the durability and performance of components used within military and defense applications. This process is essential in protecting critical parts from corrosion, wear, and environmental degradation, ensuring they can withstand the severe conditions often encountered in military operations. 

 

Why Choose Valence Surface Technologies For Military Plating In Houston?

Valence Surface Technologies stands at the forefront of military plating in Houston, providing unmatched expertise and quality, which are essential for the exacting demands of the aerospace and defense sectors. Here’s why partnering with Valence is the right choice for your military plating needs.

 

Unparalleled Expertise

With years of industry-leading experience, Valence employs a team of specialists dedicated to advancing the standards of aerospace product finishing. Our experts understand the nuances involved in military plating, ensuring the material integrity and performance crucial to defense applications.

 

Comprehensive Capabilities

As the world’s largest independent aerospace surface finishing company, Valence offers a breadth of processes and technologies under one roof. Our integrated solutions encompass everything from anodizing and chemical conversion coatings to non-destructive testing and painting, streamlining the supply chain and enhancing efficiency for our clients.

 

Commitment To Quality And Compliance

In the defense industry, quality and compliance are non-negotiable. Valence prides itself on adhering to rigorous industry standards and regulatory requirements. Our certification to various defense and aerospace quality standards guarantees that each finish meets the highest levels of durability and reliability.

 

Strategic Location

Located in Houston, a hub for aerospace and defense activities, Valence extends its services seamlessly to regional customers. Our strategic position enables quick response times and close collaboration with local clients, optimizing project timelines and outcomes.

 

Trusted Partnership

Valence’s role as a trusted partner in aerospace surface finishing is a testament to our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. By providing innovative solutions and exceptional service, we aim to build enduring relationships with our clients and ensure that their most critical projects are executed flawlessly.

 

Military & Aerospace Plating Process

Military and aerospace applications demand the highest durability, precision, and reliability standards. At Valence, we lead the industry with our advanced plating processes, which are specially designed to meet these stringent requirements.

 

Rigorous Material Selection

The first step in our plating process involves selecting the most appropriate materials, tailored to withstand the harshest environments and operational demands. Our experts meticulously analyze material properties to ensure unparalleled strength and resilience in every application.

 

Precision Plating Techniques

Utilizing state-of-the-art plating techniques, Valence guarantees superior quality and exactitude. Our processes include cadmium plating, electroless nickel plating, and anodizing, each delivering distinct advantages for military and aerospace components. These techniques enhance wear resistance and provide exceptional protection against corrosion and abrasion.

 

Quality Assurance & Testing

Every phase of our plating process is subjected to rigorous quality assurance protocols. Advanced testing methods, such as thermal cycling and salt spray testing, are deployed to confirm the integrity and durability of our coatings under operational stress conditions. This meticulous approach ensures compliance with industry standards and guarantees performance longevity.

 

Environmental Considerations

Valence is committed to sustainable practices, integrating environmentally friendly solutions into our plating processes. By utilizing non-toxic and recyclable materials, we reduce our environmental footprint while maintaining industry-leading quality

 

Quality Assurance & Testing

Elevate Your Aerospace Projects With Valence Surface Technologies 

Unlock a world of possibilities with Valence, the global leader in aerospace surface finishing. Here’s why Valence is your ultimate partner:

  • Complete Integration: We’re the only aerospace product finishing company to offer a fully integrated solution, serving aviation, defense, and space industries
  • Cutting-Edge Technology: With state-of-the-art equipment and processes, we deliver unmatched quality and precision, setting new standards in aerospace finishing.
  • Sustainability Commitment: Our mission is to be your trusted partner in aerospace surface finishing. We’re dedicated to sustainable practices, reducing our environmental impact every step of the way.
  • Global Expertise: As the largest independent player in the aerospace supply chain, Valence brings global expertise and local excellence to your projects.

Join the industry leaders who choose Valence Surface Technologies for their aerospace finishing needs. Request a customized quote for your finishing solutions today.

 

Benefits Of Military & Aerospace Plating

Precision, reliability, and durability are non-negotiable in military and aerospace applications. High-performance plating solutions play a critical role in protecting components from corrosion, wear, extreme temperatures, and chemical exposure. Here’s why military and aerospace manufacturers rely on specialized plating technologies:

 

Superior Corrosion Resistance

  • Military aircraft, naval vessels, and ground combat vehicles operate in harsh environments, including high humidity, saltwater, and extreme temperatures.
  • Plating solutions like cadmium, electroless nickel, and anodizing create a protective barrier, preventing oxidation, rust, and chemical degradation.
  • This extends component lifespan and reduces frequent maintenance and replacement costs.

     

Increased Wear & Abrasion Resistance

  • Military and aerospace components experience constant mechanical stress, impact, and friction.
  • Hard chrome, electroless nickel, and tungsten carbide coatings provide exceptional surface hardness, reducing wear on parts such as landing gear, turbine blades, and weapons systems.
  • This enhances operational reliability and prevents premature failures.

     

Enhanced Electrical Conductivity & Shielding

  • Plating materials like silver, gold, and nickel improve electrical conductivity for avionics, communication systems, and radar equipment.
  • Specialized coatings also offer electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, essential for secure military operations.

     

Thermal & Chemical Resistance

  • Aerospace components must endure high-temperature environments, such as jet engines and re-entry spacecraft.
  • Ceramic-based coatings, anodizing, and thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) provide heat resistance, protecting against oxidation, thermal shock, and material fatigue.
  • Many coatings also resist exposure to hydraulic fluids, fuel, and chemical agents, maintaining integrity under extreme conditions.

     

Lightweight Performance Without Compromising Strength

  • Military and aerospace industries prioritize lightweight materials for fuel efficiency and mobility.
  • Plating enhances aluminum, titanium, and magnesium alloys without adding excessive weight.
  • This allows aircraft, spacecraft, and military vehicles to maintain speed, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency.

     

Adhesion For Paint & Coatings

  • Certain plating processes, such as zinc-nickel and phosphate coatings, improve the adhesion of paints, primers, and topcoats.
  • This is essential for aerospace camouflage, anti-corrosion finishes, and military-grade coatings that must endure UV exposure, impact, and chemical interactions.

 

Military & Aerospace Plating Applications

Military and aerospace plating applications are diverse and critical, ensuring the functionality and longevity of components in demanding environments. Here’s a breakdown of key applications:

 

Aerospace Applications:

Aircraft Components:

  • Landing gear: Hard chrome plating for wear resistance.
  • Engine parts: Coatings for heat and corrosion resistance.
  • Airframe components: Anodizing for corrosion protection.
  • Connectors and electrical components: Silver and gold plating for high conductivity.

 

Spacecraft Components:

  • Electronic systems: Silver plating for reliable signal transmission.
  • Heat shields: Coatings to withstand extreme temperatures.
  • Structural components: Coatings for protection against the vacuum of space and radiation.

 

Military Applications:
Weaponry:

  • Gun barrels: Coatings for wear and corrosion resistance.
  • Missile components: Coatings for heat resistance and durability.

     

Military Vehicles:

  • Armored vehicle parts: Zinc-nickel plating for corrosion protection.
  • Engine components: Coatings for high-temperature performance.

     

Electronic And Communication Systems:

  • Radar systems: Coatings for electrical conductivity and environmental protection.
  • Communication devices: Coatings to ensure reliable operation in harsh conditions.

     

General Military Hardware:

  • Fasteners and connectors: Coatings for corrosion resistance.
  • Components exposed to saltwater: Cadmium (though being replaced) or zinc-nickel plating
Radar systems

Pricing Information For Military & Aerospace Plating

Understanding the costs of military plating in Houston is critical for companies seeking premium surface finishes. At Valence, we provide transparent and competitive pricing that reflects our unmatched expertise and comprehensive service offering in the aerospace and defense industries. Below are some of the key factors influencing the cost of our plating services:

 

Material Costs

The choice of materials plays a significant role in determining the overall pricing. Military applications demand advanced metals and alloys to ensure durability and performance under extreme conditions. Our materials are sourced from trusted suppliers, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

 

Process Complexity

Different plating processes require varying levels of expertise and equipment. More complex coatings, such as those necessitating multiple plating layers or specific finishing techniques, can incur additional costs. Our teams at Valence are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which allows us to tackle complex projects efficiently.

 

Volume And Scale

Economies of scale can influence pricing significantly. High-volume plating orders often reduce per-unit costs, offering our clients a more cost-effective solution for large projects. We work closely with our clients to optimize batch sizes for the best value.

 

Customization Needs

Custom plating solutions tailored to specific operational environments may involve additional design and development stages, impacting the price. However, our integrated approach ensures that even highly customized projects are delivered with precision and reliability, maintaining cost-effectiveness.

 

Exploring Valence Surface Technologies’ Eastern Locations

Valence Surface Technologies proudly extends its aerospace surface finishing services across the Eastern United States. With facilities strategically located in key aerospace hubs, we cater to the specific needs of the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries, ensuring precision, quality, and environmental responsibility at every production stage.

 

Valence Surface Technologies – Atlanta, GA

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, one of the nation’s major aerospace hubs, this facility plays a critical role in our network. Atlanta’s strategic positioning in the Southeast makes it an ideal location for providing a wide range of aerospace surface finishing services, meeting the diverse needs of the aerospace and aviation industries.

 

Services Offered:

  • Anodizing: Our anodizing services enhance the corrosion resistance and surface hardness of components, particularly for aluminum parts used in aerospace applications.
  • Passivation: We improve the resistance of stainless steel and other metals to corrosion, ideal for aerospace components exposed to challenging environments.
  • Chemical Conversion Coatings: This service provides an additional layer of corrosion protection for aluminum and other metals, ensuring the longevity and reliability of critical aerospace parts.

 

Valence Surface Technologies – Greenville, SC

Situated in Greenville, South Carolina, our facility specializes in aerospace coatings and finishes. Greenville is known for its robust aerospace industry presence, making this location a hub of innovation and support for aerospace manufacturers, suppliers, and MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) providers in the region.

 

Services Offered:

  • Aerospace Coatings: We provide specialized coatings designed to protect components from wear, corrosion, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-term reliability.
  • Aerospace Surface Finishing: A comprehensive range of surface treatments designed to enhance the durability, performance, and aesthetic appearance of aerospace components.

 

Valence Surface Technologies – Orlando, FL

Our Orlando, Florida, facility plays a key role in serving the aerospace and defense sectors with a wide range of surface finishing solutions. Orlando’s proximity to major aerospace and defense contractors positions this location perfectly to meet the stringent demands of these industries.

 

Services Offered:

  • Surface Finishing Solutions: We offer a range of plating, coating, and finishing services that enhance the performance and longevity of aerospace components.
  • Specialized Aerospace Coatings: Our Orlando location provides coatings that enhance resistance to extreme temperatures, wear, and corrosion, ensuring optimal performance under challenging conditions.

 

Valence Surface Technologies – Raleigh, NC

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, our facility is dedicated to providing cutting-edge aerospace surface treatments. Known for its sustainability initiatives and strict adherence to industry standards, the Raleigh facility stands at the forefront of aerospace finishing innovation.

 

Services Offered:

  • Sustainable Surface Treatments: Raleigh leads our efforts in environmentally responsible aerospace finishing by offering water-based coatings and eco-friendly passivation processes.
  • Adherence to Industry Regulations: With certifications like NADCAP and AS9100, our Raleigh location ensures that all aerospace components meet the highest quality and safety standards.

 

Contact Valence Surface Technologies Today

Valence Surface Technologies stands as your dedicated partner in excellence for companies in aerospace and defense sectors seeking premium military plating services in Houston. As the largest independent entity in the aerospace product finishing domain, we are uniquely equipped to provide a fully integrated surface finishing solution tailored to meet the stringent demands of the aviation, defense, and space industries.

 

Reach out to us today to learn more about how Valence can assist with your specific military plating needs and to benefit from our unparalleled experience in surface technologies. Discover the difference that comes with partnering with a reputable provider who values reliability and excellence in every aspect of your military plating projects.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Military Plating In Houston | Aerospace & Defense Coatings

What Industries Use Military Plating?

Military plating is predominantly used in the defense, aerospace, and space industries due to its ability to provide robust protection against harsh environments. It is critical to ensure the integrity and longevity of components subject to extreme conditions.

 

Are Valence’s Military Coatings Nadcap-Certified?

Yes, Valence’s military coatings are NADCAP-certified. We adhere to the highest industry standards, ensuring quality and reliability in our surface finishing processes.

 

What Is The Difference Between Anodizing And Cadmium Plating?

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a durable, corrosion-resistant anodic oxide finish, primarily used for aluminum. Cadmium plating, on the other hand, involves coating components with a layer of cadmium to prevent corrosion, suitable for steel and iron components.

 

How Long Does Military Plating Last?

The lifespan of military plating depends on the environment and usage conditions. Generally, high-quality military plating, like those provided by Valence, can significantly extend the service life of components, providing long-term protection against corrosion and wear.

 

Can Military Plating Be Customized?

Yes, military plating can be customized to meet specific operational needs and performance criteria. Valence offers tailored solutions to ensure that the coatings meet your projects’ unique requirements.

 

Do You Offer Aerospace Coatings For Commercial Aviation?

Yes. In addition to serving defense and space industries, Valence also offers specialized aerospace coatings suitable for commercial aviation, maintaining our commitment to versatility and excellence in surface finishing solutions.