Summary for u-shape zinc electroplating Discussion
U-shape vs in-line zinc electroplating is discussed as a layout choice rather than a universal upgrade. Frank Routhier asked whether converting a straight electroplating line, with racking and un-racking at the same end, to a U-shape would bring major benefits. Ted Mooney, P.E. noted that the best answer depends on whether the line is automatic or manual, rack or barrel, and how many lines the shop has. In general, he said a U-shaped line costs more and uses more equipment, but can provide higher production, more flexibility for loading and unloading, and less dragover contamination. He added that U-shape is usually a poor fit only when a shop has many lines that could otherwise be arranged in orderly straight rows; in that case, scattered load/unload areas can create logistical problems.
Q. My situation: We are currently operating a straight electroplating line with racking and un-racking at the same end. We are considering to re-configure our line in U-shape. Has anyone done this? What are the main advantages to go to U-shape line?
Frank Routhier
Crd Placage – Drummondville, Qc, Can
June 4, 2018
A. Hi Frank. Please tell us whether this is an automatic vs. a manual line, whether it is rack vs. barrel plating, and whether your shop has one or two plating lines vs. a dozen.
But regardless, a U-shape line involves more equipment and is more expensive, but will offer higher production, more loading/unloading flexibility, and less potential for dragover contamination. The only time I think U-shaped lines are the wrong approach is if you have a whole bunch of plating lines which you could align in neat rows of straight lines, loaded and unloaded in a neat row but where U-shape lines vs. building shape would necessitate arranging lines with load-unload areas scattered in different orientations, which is a logistical problem.
Regards,
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com – Pine Beach, New Jersey
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June 2018
Q. Thanks Ted,
It’s a single manual rack line.
I would assume the increase in cost is mostly due to the hoist. Also, the transfer between cleaning side and electroplating/finishing.
Why the U-shape gives more production?
Thanks again.
Frank Routhier [returning]
Crd Placage – Drummondville, Qc, Can
A. Hi Frank. The higher production with one manual hoist is probably minimal, due just to the fact that the work only has to be carried forward and never backward, for a more efficient time-motion diagram. Try drawing a time-motion diagram for conveying the work through the line with the correct immersion time range in each tank and estimate the productivity if the hoist keeps moving.
But if you add a second hoist, or automate, the hoists not being in each other’s way helps productivity too. With an automated line you would use at least one hoist on each side, and would use a transfer shuttles on the back end of the line as well as the front, rather than a U-shaped track.
Regards,
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com – Pine Beach, New Jersey
Need quick confidential answers? $25
Need project assistance? $100/hr.