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Copper plated steel problems

Does anyone know what the minimum plating thickness should be over CRS 1010 for good corrosion protection. Seems to me that if the copper gets scratched down to the base steel, there will be a galvanic cell in which the iron is sacrificial (similar to the situation in tin plated steel). Also, are there brighteners and/or other additives which will reduce the copper's tendency to oxidize? The items we have look awful after minor handling, and the plated surface will be visible to the customer.

Thanks a bunch, Jeff

Jeff Verive
- Bolingbrook, Illinois, USA
1999

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1999

Jeff,

The minimum plating thickness would first be dependent on the surface finish of the base metal (rougher surfaces need more coverage) plus the copper needs to be pore free (about 0.0001") and finally thick enough for the lifes dents (total could be as much as 0.0004".

With copper plating semi-bright should hide the handling best. No brighteners and/or additives will do very much to slow the oxides from forming. You can try a anti-tarnish aid after plating (usually last tank, no rinse). But in any case check with the supplier of your plating bath chemistry.

Fred Mueller, CEF
- Royersford, Pennsylvania

Hi I'm an metallurgical engineer. I'm interested in copper plated steel coin very much. I'll be happy if somebody let me know any information about barrel type electroplating. Thank you

Youngsu Han
- Incheon Korea
2000

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I would like information on the storage of Copper plated Steel products. What would be the best way to store this product to prevent discoloration and corrosion?

Kind Regards

Estelle van der Linde
SA MINT - Pretoria, South Africa
2000