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Copper Strike

Is there a reason that some companies like to use a copper strike rather then a nickel strike before plating nickel on ferrous alloys. I find I get better adhesion with the nickel strike. Can you tell me the advantages of using a copper cyanide strike, and does it put more or less hydrogen into the metal.

Garry Pickett
aerospace - Los Angeles, California
1998

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Dear Garry,

I have used both types of strike and the results were not the same on all materials. Often an adhesion problem where the strike appears to be at fault can be solved by switching or combining the two. Best you should have both available especially when dealing with wierdo designers, like in the aircraft industry.

Dave Brackenridge
aerospace plating - Germiston, South Africa
1997