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Cleanliness Measurement and Lubricant Removal

We coat very fine(.004" dia.) wire. A new product uses cobalt alloy wire, which we have had major problems while coating(adhesion) due to residuals of proprietary drawing lubricant, even after hot alkaline cleaning. I suspect that these residuals of this lubricant are in microcracks on the surface. I have used the suggested cleaner(85% phosphoric acid) to no avail.

#1 Would a reverse current electropolish work for cleaning?

#2 What would be an easy, quick, cheap way to measure the effectiveness of the cleaning process? I am exploring OSEE.

Andrew C. Mork
- Plymouth, Minnesota
2002

Electropolishing is designed to remove metal, not soils. Electrify your alkaline cleaner, not an acid bath. Ultrasonics can probably help too. I can't comment on the cleanliness measuring instrument.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002

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