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Plating of Alloy 6061T-6

I have a question regarding the plating a high aluminum content zinc like the Alloy 6061T-6. Several different process have been tried with no succes, all of them falling in the blisters or lack of adherence between the base metal and the cyanide copper layer.

Is there a specific process for this type of material?

R Garcia Reynaga
- Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
2006

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6061T6 is not high in zinc at only 0.15 % and it is relatively easy to plate. Finishing DOT com has literature available that tells the best preparatory cycle for electroplating or electrolessly plating onto aluminum.

Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services

Garner, North Carolina

2006

I agree with the previous response. Keep in mind that when preparing aluminum for plating, the clue to success is a single, or preferably, double zincate step which is almost pure zinc. So, high zinc shouldn't be a problem. You have to find out the actual chemical analysis of your substrate and check your preplate cycle and microscopic surface condition. Look for micro pores.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2006