The process of plating a base part with tin lead requires a high level of expertise and specialist machinery. A thin layer of lead and tin goes through a co-deposition process and is applied to the base part. Depending on the requirements of the final product, a variety of different compositions are applied to the process.
Easiest Materials to Electroplate
Alloys compromised of tin-lead are the easiest materials to electroplate. The co-deposition process is made a lot easier because the materials are similar, and the finish will be high quality.
Advantages of using Tin Lead Plating
Tin-lead is widely utilized across the electronics industry for a number for reasons, including:
* It melts at low temperatures making it easy to work with.
* It’s easy to solder with via a variety of different of different methods.
* The alloys have good corrosion resistant properties.
* The alloys are effective at conducting electricity.
* The alloys are highly ductile, meaning they do not deform and bend easily if put under stress during other processes.
* The lead properties stops ‘tin whiskers’ forming a damaging the product.
* It’s possible to reflow tin-lead, improving the longevity and shelf life of the product.
Why Use a Tin Lead Finish
Also known as solder deposits, or solder plate. The finish looks dull and has a mottled type of appearance. With a matte finish, the finished products are susceptible to stains from handling or moisture. If you want a bright finish you will need to have a further plating application of bright tin applied.
The ratio of tin to lead affects the hardness of the melting point, and the durability of the finish. We can suggest the best ratio depending on the intended use of the product. The harder the composition the more resistant to abrasion the final coating will be.
Where to get Tin Lead Plating
General Metal Finishing has been offering high quality tin lead plating services for a number of years. They operate to precise ASTM or military standards, and have a rigorous testing and quality control procedures. If you have any tin lead plating requirements they would be happy to discuss your options, and they price the job very competitively; Contact General Metal Finishing For Further Information regarding tin lead plating and their other services. They have the experience and expertise to fulfill the most demanding jobs, and are dedicated to exceeding your expectations.
