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Letter 12184
Zinc Plate Flaking Off 12L14 Carbon Steel
During Forming
I have a problem/question regarding zinc plate of 12L14 steel. We
have a cylindrical case made of 12L14 that is zinc plated 200-400
microinches (our specifications). During the subsequent assembly
process, we place a plastic cap into the case ends and roll the case
ends using a pneumatic press and mandrel to capture the plastic caps.
The rolling operation causes flaking of the zinc plate, which can
cause electrical failures due to metallic particles inside the case.
What are my alternatives to zinc plate that will not flake off during
the rolling of the case ends, and what are the tradeoffs?
Mike McMonagle
- Houston, Texas
Machinists love leaded steel. Platers hate it for exactly the
problems you have. Normally, using a fluoboric acid dip will remove
enough lead to give better adhesion. This is a more expensive acid
and may have to be in addition to the muriatic or sulfuric the plater
is using. Most tank lines do not have the capability of adding
another acid tank and associated rinse tanks. Two main choices: 1. go
to a NON free cutting steel or 2. go to a plater that can use the
fluoboric treatment.
James Watts
- FL
Maybe a more ductile plate? Try Zinc Iron... if the specification
does not allow a plating change, are you getting it plated with acid
or alkaline zinc? Are there cosmetic concerns for the finished
assembly?
Brian Lucas
- Wolcott, CT
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question on a different subject.
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