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Electroless Nickel Plating Cleanliness spec

We have Copper or Steel parts plated with Electroless Nickel.
Occasionally, they return with some bluish or brownish stains and/or tiny white chunks that appear to be crystals.
I took a piece to a local laboratory and the stain and the chunk appear to be Sodium sulphate (NaSO4).
I'm caught in the middle between my Customer, who needs an absolutely clean and stain-free part and my Supplier who says that is nearly impossible.
What cleanliness standard might I use to ensure I satisfy my Customer while not driving away Suppliers?

Jeff Stevens
Stamped Metal Part Supplier - Warwick, Rhode Island, USA
January 16, 2011

Perhaps what your supplier means is that it's impossible for the price. Or for his shop. If you didn't agree upon a standard from the beginning it may be very difficult at this point. Time to go shopping again.
G. Marrufo

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
First of two simultaneous responses -- January 17, 2011

Second of two simultaneous responses -- January 18, 2011

A final rinse in DI water that has a conductivity below 50 microSiemens should result in parts that meet your customer's requirements.

Lyle Kirman

Lyle Kirman
consultant - Cleveland Heights, Ohio

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