a phosphorus content of > 11% by weight? My understanding is that this type
of electroless nickel is completely amorphous and pit free (and
non-magnetic), offering the best corrosion protection. It also minimizes
tool wear for diamond turning applications, compared to deposits of lower
phosphorus content. Reportedly, it also offers the lowest levels of trace
contaminants. Over the 10%-11% P range, there is transition from
crystalline/magnetic to amorphous/non-magnetic. So, a > 11% P specification
assures consistency. Yet my experience suggests that few job shops
(platers) are capable (or even willing) to deposit such nickel. Why is it
more difficult to plate > 11% P electroless nickel compared to > 10% P?
MacDermid's website
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states plating rates of 0.3-0.5 mil/hr for high phos. (10-13% P) compared to0.6-1.0 mil/hr for mid phos. (5-9% P). Is plating rate the driving economic
factor, or are there other factors that make the process difficult to
establish and maintain?
I've posted a similar question on
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