Insights, updates, and knowledge sharing from the world of electroplating and metal finishing.
A technical review of Tin-Lead (Sn-Pb) electroplating. Understand why this legacy alloy provides the ultimate solderable surface, why it suppresses tin whiskers, and how aerospace and military sectors navigate RoHS exemptions.
Explore the extreme wear resistance of MIL-A-8625 Type III Hard Coat Anodizing. Learn why it is processed near freezing temperatures, how it affects part dimensions, and when to specify it over standard anodizing or hard chrome.
A comprehensive guide to standard (Type II) aluminum anodizing. Learn how the electrochemical process works, why certain alloys anodize better than others, and the science behind dyeing aluminum.
Understand the differences between Zinc, Iron, and Manganese phosphate conversion coatings. Learn how these non-metallic layers improve paint adhesion, retain lubricants, and prevent galling.
A comprehensive guide to modern RoHS-compliant trivalent passivations for zinc plating. Understand the differences in corrosion resistance, color stability, and performance among clear, yellow, and black conversion coatings.
A technical guide to the copper strike layer. Understand why attempting to plate directly onto certain substrates causes immediate adhesion failure, and how a thin, cyanide or alkaline copper strike ensures a flawless final deposit.