Abstract: An electroless nickel plating process with high deposition rate was optimized by orthogonal test. The structure of plating layer and its P element were examined through scanning electron microscope and DES. Salt spray test, immersion test and palarizasion curve test were carried out in which the deposit layer exhibited good corrosion resistance, excellent wear resistance and higher hardness. Nickel layer can be plated on the surfaces of iron and steel, copper and stainless steel as an effective method to protect heat exchanger from eroding in ship.