American Electro Products has invested in spouted bed electrode (SBE) plating to meet the growing demand for smaller electronic parts. In SBE plating, a jet of plating solution circulates parts throughout the chamber, allowing for uniform coating without causing damage.
Learn more about this innovative electroplating process and how we can help with your project.
What Is Spouted Bed Electrode Plating?
Spouted bed electrode plating is particularly effective for plating parts that are smaller than 1 cm in any dimension. This technique helps achieve uniform plating thicknesses, especially for internal diameters (ID coverage), and minimizes distortion or damage often associated with other plating methods.
SBE plating was developed about two decades ago to address the challenges of plating these increasingly compact and flat parts of today’s electronics.
How the Process Works:
- Parts of various shapes and sizes are placed in a vertical ultrasonic cylinder with a conical base.
- A high-velocity jet continuously streams the plating solution upward.
- This force pushes parts toward a deflector plate at the top of the cylinder.
- The components then travel back down to the conical base, getting plated in the process.
- Each part receives an even coating, no matter its shape, size or configuration, because of this continuous circulation.
Our Services and Capabilities
SBE plating can apply gold and nickel to a range of components too small for barrel or vibratory plating. Load volumes generally range from one to three cubic inches of parts, making this method ideal for precision plating on miniature and delicate components.
Advantages of SBE Plating
SBE plating offers several unique benefits:
- Efficient Use of Solution: The high-velocity jet reduces waste by targeting only the parts.
- Uniform Thickness: A consistent current density ensures even coverage across all parts.
- Smooth Cylinder Interior: With no seams or doors inside the cylinder, parts move freely and avoid over-plating.
- Ideal for Microscopic Components: SBE plating handles parts too small or complex for other plating methods.
Learn more about all types of electroplating techniques to determine the best one for your job.