In the pyrophosphate copper plating process, the Hull cell test is a conventional method used to evaluate the performance of plating solutions and process parameters. However, when the bright area of the test piece plating is on the small side, it may suggest some potential problems that need to be emphasized and solved.
Possible causes and solutions for small bright areas of the plated layer
1. Uneven current density:
The distribution of the current density for copper pyrophosphate plating in the Hull cell test is critical to the quality of the coating. If the current density is too high or too low, it may result in a reduction in the bright areas of the plating. The solution is to adjust the current density during the test to ensure that it is in the proper range (typically 1-5 amperes per square decimeter).
2. Imbalance in electrolyte composition:
Improper concentration of copper pyrophosphate or potassium pyrophosphate in the electrolyte will affect the brightness of the plated layer. The electrolyte should be analyzed and adjusted periodically to ensure that its chemical composition is within the proper range.
3. Failure or insufficiency of additives:
The concentration of Bigely pyrophosphate copper brightener during the plating process has an important influence on the brightness of the plated layer. Insufficient additives or age-related failures result in a reduction of the bright areas of the plated layer. The additive should be replenished and replaced periodically to maintain its effective concentration.
4. Inappropriate temperature of the solution:
Temperature plays a vital role in the plating process. If the solution temperature is too high or too low, it will also affect the bright areas of the plated layer. It is generally recommended to control the temperature between 20-30 degrees Celsius and use thermostatic equipment to keep the temperature stable.
5. Inadequate stirring:
Uneven ion concentration and temperature distribution in the solution can lead to poor brightness of the plated layer. Inadequate agitation can exacerbate these problems. Adequate stirring of the electrolyte should be ensured, and mechanical or air stirring may even be considered to improve uniformity.
Conclusion
By carefully analyzing and adjusting the parameters in the plating process, such as current density, electrolyte composition, solution temperature and degree of agitation, as well as the use of Bigely pyrophosphate copper brightener, the problem of the small bright area of the plated layer in the Hull cell test can be solved. This not only enhances the stability of the plating process, but also improves the quality of the plated layer, helping to meet stringent product requirements and standards.
If you have any demands for pyrophosphate copper brightener, please feel free to contact us.
