The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

E-nickel plating of Brass

 

Is there a specific Electroless nickel Plating Process for the plating of Brass. Presently I plate brass by metal cleaning (Alkaline) 2 volts then acid clean. The parts are small pins, with each 1000 pieces approx. 100 pieces of steel to promote plating are included when placed into the nickel bath. The problem has been at times poor adhesion and coverage. In addition will heating the parts following plating help such as tempering steel when plated. Thank you. I look forward to your reply.

Robert Sachs
- Morrisburg, Ontario, Canada

What acid cycle, What acid, temp, time, concentration. Important to determine if suitable. Can you use an applied voltage to get faster iniyiation of the plating? Most important id the brass a leaded alloy? (360)If so floroboric acid. If memory serves me 20% by vol, R.T. or slightly warm 1 minute.

Jon Quirt
- Fridley, Minnesota

You leave much information out. First, you don't say if parts are anodic or cathodic-should be anodic. Should be using an inhibited cleaner to prevent discoloration. But-you may only need a soak cleaner, for brass. No electrocleaner may be required. What acid and strength? Electroless nickel has to operate at a specific temperature, about 190 degrees F, has to have a certain surface area to gallons solution to deposit correctly. Hopefully you are buying a proprietary electroless process and can ask the vendor for steps of proper pre-treatment and how to operate the electroless bath.

Bill Hemp
tech svc. w/ chemical supplier - Grand Rapids, Michigan

I always like to follow the pre plate recommendations of the EN manufacturer. That way, he is more prone to help you out when you have a problem like this. Question, since you have the capability to apply electrical current to the load, why add steel to the load to kick start it. Give it a few amps of negative with a ss anode for about 5 seconds. This will kick start it. You could also go thru a dilute ammonia ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] rinse just prior to the EN which might be enough to kick it off. The steel reduces your load and wastes EN.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida