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Nickel bath corrosion problems

2004

I'm a newbie in this area so ask for more details, if my question is not so clear?

In our nickel bath there is always the same problem, almost every part has corrosion problem, and some bubbles on them, is our bath somewhere wrong or what could cause this? Bath is as follows(ask for details?): parts are automatic steel products, 1. electric wash->2 flushwashes->(not sure the English word) dekap->2 flushwashes->nickel 30 minutes Bath is standard watts bath ask for more specified details, because I'm not sure how to ask this question?

If anyone could have solution for this, I'd appreciate!

Marqqu
student practising - Vantaa, Uusimaa, Finland

Marqqu

The possibilities are as follows , based on info you provided.

1) Possibility No 1. Nickel is Blistering. If this is actually blistering, you need to improve the Pre cleaning and the acid activation. Parts must not show a water break before plating.

2)Possibility No 2: If this problem is pitting , which looks like small holes in the Nickel, you should call in your Nickel Brightener supplier to trouble shoot this problem.

Regards,

Asif Nurie [deceased]
- New Delhi, India
With deep regret we sadly advise that Asif passed away on Jan 24, 2016
2004

Thank you for your quick answer Asif! What would be the most suitable acid activation method? We can't use hydrochloric acid because of the hydrogen (we don't have enough good equipment to get the hydrogen gas out of the room) and the main problem now might be the led that contaminates to the surface, so I was wondering if there could be any other acid activation that could totally remove the led from automated steel? Or am I on the wrong way now? any help would be appreciated...

Marqqu
- Finland
2004

Marqqu,

I take it you are sure your problem is blisters. 10 percent sulfuric acid is used at room temp for 20 to 40 seconds to activate mild steel, Whereas 5 -6 % Sulfuric acid is used for Brass or copper. Very negligible amounts of Hydrogen will be generated during the activation.

Good luck,

Asif Nurie [deceased]
- New Delhi, India
With deep regret we sadly advise that Asif passed away on Jan 24, 2016
2004

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2004

Marqqu,

Lead from free-machining steel can definitely cause plating blisters. Follow the advice of Robert Probert and others in letters #15045, 16078 and 28400, or switch to a non-leaded steel. This would avoid creating hazardous waste.

Ken Vlach [deceased]
- Goleta, California
Finishing.com honored Ken for his countless carefully researched responses. He passed away May 14, 2015.
Rest in peace, Ken. Thank you for your hard work which the finishing world, and we at finishing.com, continue to benefit from.