The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
  

  -----

Problem wirh ZincNickel alloy plating with barrel application

We can not get good covering speed during electroplating of ZincNickel alloy in barrel application.
Parallel, we haven't any problem with same plating solution during rack type of plating.
The process name is Reflectalloy ZNA-Atotech.
Do you have any experience in this area?
Thanks in advance,

Filiz Halilova
- ISTANBUL, TURKEY
2005

---

First of three simultaneous responses --

A barrel will never plate as fast as a rack. Given that, slower than average for the barrel is it is overloaded. Cut down you load to half a barrel and see what it does. If the barrel is plastic, does it have the correct hole size? Are the holes slowly being peened shut by the parts over time. Check the optimum chemistry for barrel from the MFG., as it may be different than for rack.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
2005

---

Second of three simultaneous responses --

Because this alloy plating solution works well with your rack work, it would indicate that you may have to check the tech data sheet to make sure the current density you are currently using is correct for barrel plating. Without knowing the alloy composition I couldn't give you any tips. Current density is very crucial in obtaining the proper alloy composition. Any reputable plating solution supplier has a customer service lab and qualified staff to help you. I would say call them to make sure you are doing everything you should be. Good Luck!

Mark Baker
process engineer - Malone, New York
2005

---

Third of three simultaneous responses --

Try reducing the RPM of the Barrel and increasing the current as a first step, but there is lots more to do if this doesn't work.

Khozem Vahaanwala
Saify Ind

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

2005

Barrels for this procces require custom build, to my experience,a standard plating barrel will not function correctly in a production environment. check with your supplier for proven barrel equipment specifically designed for this process.

Ron Landrette
plating equipment supplier - Bristol, Connecticut
2006