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Ni plating on Ni-fe alloy without affecting lead-based glass

Q. I have a product that is comprised of two plates of ASTM F15 (Ni-Fe) fused together using a lead-zinc-borate glass. The glass fuses to the oxide formed on the surface of the metals. I would like to subsequently Ni-Au plate the Kovar, but I am afraid that the lead based glass will not withstand the process, i.e. it will also become active and plate. I have heard that with very low current density, it is possible to plate the kovar without affecting the glass. I have also heard that this is being done on dual in-line packages.

I would like any information regarding the possibility of this process.

Thanks,

James Petri
mechanical designer - Wenatchee, Washington, USA
2004

A. James,

Glass is an insulator and will not plate when done electrolytically. You have to descale kovar to remove the scales formed during the sealing operation to get a good adhesion. Similar process is used for the manufacture of reed switch. Ni/Fe wire sealed on to low melting glass thus hermetically sealing the working environment. DIP can be can be done without problem.

Good Luck,

Karthik Thambidurai
electronic components - Norwood, Massachusetts

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