Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Alternative to nickel strike for circuit board fingers

We are working on an Air Force P2 need that requires an alternative to nickel plating on circuit board fingers used in multiple AF weapons systems and support equipment. The application is a 1 micron nickel strike deposited on the fingers for strength prior to depositing copper for conductance. An alternative to nickel is needed if future environmental regulations institute a reduction in nickel usage. Any thoughts or suggestions of current research?

Susan Brandick
CTC - Johnstown, Pennsylvania
2002

Switch to Cobalt. It has very similar properties and application methods are identical to nickel. Costs more at times, but you are talking about a very limited amount of actual metal.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
2002

Susan, have you explored the possibility of using vacuum coatings, e.g., Copper, Aluminum, Titanium or others ? Depositing 1 micron thickness of any of these economically would not be a problem.

Mandar Sunthankar
- Fort Collins, Colorado
2002

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: