Baking Process

In an effort to keep hydrogen embrittlement at a minimum in our plating process, Sonic Plating Co. Inc, has established the following controls:

1) HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT IN THE PLATING SOLUTION

a) We use a chloride zinc solution instead of cyanide, low cyanide or alkaline zinc solutions.

b) We control the concentration of various chemicals in the plating solution by daily analysis and frequent, but small additions of chemicals. We run daily hull cell panels to determine solution efficiency.

2) HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT IN THE PICKLING ACID

a) We use a low concentration of muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid) to minimize hydrogen embrittlement. Acid chloride solutions have very high cathode efficiency, with practically no hydrogen.

b) The concentration of acid is controlled by making frequent, but small additions.

3) HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT RELIEF BAKING

a) Parts are baked within one hour after plating.

b) Our ovens are calibrated and certified by an independent laboratory every three months.

c) Parts are baked at 375º F for a specified time as directed by the customer and/or ASTM B 850-98 (Reapproved 2004) standards. Click on our BAKE CHART to view appropriate bake time standards.

We believe the above guidelines provide us with the best available technologies and controls to minimize hydrogen embrittlement in our plating process. Unfortunately technology has not allowed for the plating community to fully guarantee that hydrogen will be completely relieved from a plated and/or baked metal part.

Please click and read our section on HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT to learn more.