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Barrel copper plating

2007

We do copper plating in barrel.using atotech dye basa brightener system.
we face adhesion problem frequently due to breakdown products generated in bath after 10000 to 12000 amp hrs.we do carbon treatment.how we can reduce batch carbon frequency.
Can be non-dye base sys is more suitable for barrel plating. Components are hardened steel. Please also suggest non cyanide plating for first flash coat before acid copper.

Prasad Patwardhan
job plater - India

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2007

Prasad,
Has it occurred to you that you may have an immersion deposit causing the adhesion problem? Are you applying a good strike or "flash" before acid Cu?
In your batch carbon treatment procedure are you also adding peroxide? If not, figure one pint 33% hydrogen peroxide per US gallon, heat to 135 degrees F, mechanical mix for 2 hours. Then carbon treat as you are now. To cut down on batch carbon treatment frequency you could use carbon filter tubes once a month filtering for 2-3 hours at a time.
As for a non Cn Cu strike for barrel, there are proprietary baths available that provide great results. You can search this website for a good copper plating supplier. Good Luck!

Mark Baker
Process Engineer - Syracuse, New York