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Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Pine Beach, NJ

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Gold plating problem on SMA connector pin

We have some SMA connectors with Kovar pins that are plated with gold over nickel. The gold plating is coming off as a result of mating. Is there any solution for long term use and storage of these connectors for a military application? Or is there a way of repairing these connector pins for long term use and storage? Is there a document out that can be used as guidance to justify the use of these connectors? Any info will be greatly appreciated.

DAVID D [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
OEM/Engineering - ELMONT, NEW YORK, USA
2003

You say the gold is "coming off", David. If you mean it's wearing away, yes, it will eventually do that. Sometimes you can get more life either by heavier plating or by using a "harder" gold plating solution.

If you mean it's peeling off or flaking off, that's defective plating and you don't want to justify the use of the connectors you want to repair the plating or replace the connectors. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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