The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

Advantage and Disadvantage of heated Nickel Watt solution

Hi,

What is the advantage and disadvantage to the lead frame if Nickel watt solution heated up to 40-50 °C. Is the nickel deposition will increased? Appearance will become bright? etc.thickness will. Thank you.

Faizul Azli
Plating shop employee - Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
October 13, 2011

---

Nickel plating efficiency and ductility are extremely low at temperatures below 40 °C. Higher temperatures are usually used, and 60 degrees C is not uncommon.

Lyle Kirman
consultant - Cleveland Heights, Ohio
First of two simultaneous responses -- ober 14, 2011

---

Second of two simultaneous responses -- October 14, 2011

Hi Faizul,

Advantages of higher nickel bath temp (up to ~50 °C):

1. Increase hardness.
2. Reduce pitting.
3. Less dullness, esp. at high current density area.
4. Less burning in high current density area.


Disadvantages of higher nickel bath temp (up to ~50 °C):

1. Reduce elongation/tensile strength of nickel deposit.
2. Brighter appearance (leadframe industry may not prefer a higher brightness).


Regards,
David

David Shiu
- Singapore