#1062 Brite Ultracleaning/Brite Microfinishing

Industry:

Other - Manufacturers of springs

Mfg/Method:

Wire forming

Alloy:

1085 Music Wire

Problem:

The customer was experiencing problems with the part after plating and installing. The surface of the parts may not have been clean prior to plating, with resultant adhesion problems and flaking of plated material.

Solution:

Electropolishing provided the customer with a cleaner part by removing the layer with imbedded contaminants from normal fabrication and lubrication. Electropolishing also smoothed out the surface of the wire providing a friendly “pre-plate” finish. Finally, electropolishing improved the cycle life of the part. Removing the outer layer counteracted the “notch effect” that occurs during the wire forming process.

Note to engineer: Steel alloys are surprisingly corrosion resistant after electropolishing. In normal office environments, steel will often retain a clean rust-free appearance for many months without rust preventatives. However, we do not recommend electropolishing as a substitute for rust prevention methods such as plating, painting or other coatings. For design or application ideas in this area, please contact our offices.