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Proper anode to cathode ratio for plating? What are the consequences if too low?

July 10, 2013

Q. We are electroplating Pd/Ni 60/40 alloy. What are the consequences of a small anode to cathode area (ex. <1:1)? Thanks!

Tess Molina
- Hawthorne, California, USA

A. Hi Tess,

Optimum anode-to-cathode ratio for Pd/Ni alloy plating is 1:1 to 3:1. Too low anode area may result rough plating, pitting and/or poor thickness distribution,

Regards,
David

David Shiu
- Singapore
July 17, 2013

July 17, 2013

A. Hello Tess,
You will experience lower deposition rates, less than desirable thickness distribution, and also plate more metal from solution than you want. If too low, anode polarization is also possible.

Mark Baker
- Mesa, Arizona, USA

July 29, 2013

Thanks so much for all the responses!

Tess Molina
- Hawthorne, California, USA

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