Beyond The Connection Today

Why is cadmium plating still widely used in military and aerospace connectors despite its known environmental and health risks? For decades, OD cadmium has remained an industry standard thanks to its exceptional corrosion resistance, durability, and electrical performance. However, growing environmental concerns and evolving regulations are driving the search for safer alternatives. In this issue of Beyond the Connection Today, we explore why cadmium is so difficult to replace, the challenges of transitioning away from legacy finishes, and how alternatives like zinc-nickel and nickel-PTFE are shaping the future of connector technology.