Stripping Defective Copper Plate
Question: What is the best way to strip copper from steel?
Question:
What is the best way to strip copper from steel? S.H.
Answer:
I am not sure there is one best way of doing this. One formulation that is used consists of a solution of sodium cyanide (12 oz/gal) and sodium hydroxide (2 oz/gal). Use this formulation at room temperature making the part to be stripped anodic. A voltage of 2-6 volts is recommended.
Another standard formulation uses chromic acid (64 oz/gal) and sulfuric acid (4 fl oz/gal) at a temperature of 120-130F. Both of these processes can cause pitting of the steel substrate upon prolonged exposure to the stripping baths.
Another solution that I personally prefer is to use a proprietary stripping solution. Proprietary systems tend to give more consistent results with much less aggravation. You can obtain information on these processes by going to the Suppliers page at www.pfonline.com or looking in the Products Finishing Directory and Technology Guide under Stripping Solutions, metal.
Related Content
-
How to Maximize Nickel Plating Performance
The advantages of boric acid-free nickel plating include allowing manufacturers who utilize nickel plating to keep up the ever-changing regulatory policies and support sustainability efforts.
-
A Chromium Plating Overview
An overview of decorative and hard chromium electroplating processes.
-
3 Tests to Ensure Parts are Clean Prior to Plating
Making sure that all of the pre-processing fluids are removed prior to plating is not as simple as it seems. Rich Held of Haviland Products outlines three tests that can help verify that your parts are clean.
