Simulation Software Smooths Electroplating

By DE Editors

HNKTech Europe Ltd. (Wimbledon, UK), a consultancy and developer ofcustomized FEA (finite element analysis) solutions, now offerssimulation software for electroplating components. The softwareproduces highly accurate coating uniformity, says the company, andreduces wastage costs, improves product quality, and time to market.

Traditional electroplating of such components as bearings, pistons, andlanding gear parts often results in an uneven finish as well as wastageas the plating technician tries to achieve uniformity through grindingand polishing. HNKTech's FEA software works by creating a densitymodel. The model is displayed after inputting your electroplatingset-up including the geometric profile, material properties, andboundary conditions. Using these variables, the software simulates theelectroplating process then displays the density model with predictedplating thickness and uniformity.

Engineers can review the density model and make changes to thepositioning of the jig, voltage, time, and temperature. The simulationis re-run until the engineer is satisfied with the thickness anduniformity predicted. The company says that the variation in thicknessand uniformity between what is predicted and what is achieved in thefactory is 95% accurate.

HNKTech's software uses a customized user interface that is said to beeasy to use.  No specialist training is necessary and even thosewith limited training can use the software effectively, according tothe company.

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Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.