ELECTROPLATING THEORY AND PRACTICE
Training Course for Supervisors and Senior Operators

Module 1 - Introduction to Electrochemistry
A Basic Understanding of Electrochemistry
Rectifiers and Current
The Measurement of Power
Module 2 - Calculations & Chemical Principles
Measurements and the Metric System
Calculating Surface Area and Deposit Thickness
The Language of Chemistry
Efficiency, Valency, Throwing Power & Levelling
Module 3 - Electroplating  Racks & Barreling
Reasons for Electroplating
The Plating Solution & Its Composition
Rack & Barrel Plating Techniques
Effluent Treatment
Module 4 - Water-Acids-Deionisation-Corrosion
Water Purity Deionisation
Acids : ph Scale : Indicators
Electrode Potential Electrochemical Series
Voltaic Cells & Corrosion
Module 5 - Preparation & Cleaning Process 1
Identifying the Raw Material to Be Plated
Alkaline Cleaning Processes
Solvent Degreasing
Module 6 - Preparation & Cleaning Process 2
Acid Pickling
Abrasive Cleaning & Polishing
Treatment after Abrasive Finishing or Polishing

Module 7 - Rinsing & Plating Solution Management
Adhesion, Rinsing, Pre-Dips and Dragouts
The Plating Process: General Solution Maintenance
Module 8 - Principles of Analysis Identifying Problems
Chemical Analysis, Etc
Trouble Shooting
Module 9 - Waste Minimisation & Effluent Treatment
Waste Minimisation & Cleaner Production
Effluent Treatment
COURSE CONTENT:
Subjects are explained in depth and illustrated with PowerPoint visual material and lively animated videos. Material presented is printed in plain English in the manuals that participants receive & thus in the two week interval between classes there is ample time to study for the simple test which is done at the start of the next session. The results are discussed line by line immediately after marking. To maintain standards, the minimum pass mark is 40%. Papers are removed for scrutiny and returned to their owners the following session after capture of the marks to the SAMFA database.
The course is divided into nine modules & strives to connect the practical aspects of plating with the underlying chemistry and physics theory.


Experience with trainees has demonstrated how valuable this process can be. Questions and comments demonstrate that enhanced understanding encourages trainees to investigate improvements at work that they would not have considered before.  Many of these ideas translate into more efficient throughput and enhanced profitability. With the high cost of chemicals & equipment prevailing, the savings gained by having enlightened staff quickly offsets the costs of training.


ELECTROPLATING TRAINING