ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings (sometimes referred to as functional or hard chromium) applied to ferrous alloy substrates for engineering applications, particularly for increasing wear, abrasion, fretting, and corrosion resistance; for reducing galling or seizing, and static and kinetic friction; and for building up undersize or worn parts. Coatings shall be classified according to their thickness. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, stress relief and hydrogen embrittlement treatment, thickness (to measured either by microscopical, magnetic, coulometric, or X-ray spectrometry method), adhesion (to be assessed either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (to be examined either by ferroxyl, neutral salt spray, or copper sulfate test), workmanship, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings applied to ferrous alloys for engineering applications.  
1.2 Electrodeposited engineering chromium, which is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium, is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is much thicker than decorative chromium. Engineering chromium is used for the following:  
1.2.1 To increase wear and abrasion resistance,  
1.2.2 To increase fretting resistance,  
1.2.3 To reduce static and kinetic friction,  
1.2.4 To reduce galling or seizing, or both, for various metal combinations,  
1.2.5 To increase corrosion resistance, and  
1.2.6 To build up undersize or worn parts.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel (Pd-Ni) coatings for engineering applications. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold over-plate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered. The classification system for the coatings covered here shall be specified by the basis metal, the thickness of the underplating, the composition type and thickness class of the palladium-nickel coating, and the grade of the gold overplating. Coatings should be sampled, tested, and conform to specified requirements as to purity, appearance, thickness, composition, adhesion, ductility, and integrity (including gross defects, mechanical damage, porosity, and microcracks). Alloy composition shall be examined either by wet method, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Auger or electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPMA), or wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS). Coating adhesion shall be analyzed either by bend, heat, or cutting test.
SCOPE
1.1 Composition—This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel coatings containing between 70 and 95 mass % of palladium metal. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold overplate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered.  
1.2 Properties—Palladium is the lightest and least noble of the platinum group metals. Palladium-nickel is a solid solution alloy of palladium and nickel. Electroplated palladium-nickel alloys have a density between 10 and 11.5, which is substantially less than electroplated gold (17.0 to 19.3) and comparable to electroplated pure palladium (10.5 to 11.8). This yields a greater volume or thickness of coating per unit mass and, consequently, some saving of metal weight. The hardness range of electrodeposited palladium-nickel compares favorably with electroplated noble metals and their alloys (1, 2).2  
Note 1: Electroplated deposits generally have a lower density than their wrought metal counterparts.
Approximate Hardness (HK25)  
Gold  
50–250  
Palladium  
75–600  
Platinum  
150–550  
Palladium-Nickel  
300–650  
Rhodium  
750–1100  
Ruthenium  
600–1300  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    10 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited copper coatings used for engineering purposes including surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interference shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations. This specification does not cover electrodeposited copper used as a decorative finish, as an undercoat for other decorative finishes, or for electroforming. Coatings shall be classified according to thickness. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatment for reducing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness, porosity, solderability, adhesion, embrittlement relief, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited coatings of copper used for engineering purposes. Examples include surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interferences (EMI) shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations.  
1.2 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used as a decorative finish, or as an undercoat for other decorative finishes.  
1.3 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used for electroforming.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The specialized use of the electroplating process for electroforming results in the manufacture of tools and products that are unique and often impossible to make economically by traditional methods of fabrication. Current applications of nickel electroforming include: textile printing screens; components of rocket thrust chambers, nozzles, and motor cases; molds and dies for making automotive arm-rests and instrument panels; stampers for making phonograph records, video-discs, and audio compact discs; mesh products for making porous battery electrodes, filters, and razor screens; and optical parts, bellows, and radar wave guides (1-3).3  
4.2 Copper is extensively used for electroforming thin foil for the printed circuit industry. Copper foil is formed continuously by electrodeposition onto rotating drums. Copper is often used as a backing material for electroformed nickel shells and in other applications where its high thermal and electrical conductivities are required. Other metals including gold are electroformed on a smaller scale.  
4.3 Electroforming is used whenever the difficulty and cost of producing the object by mechanical means is unusually high; unusual mechanical and physical properties are required in the finished piece; extremely close dimensional tolerances must be held on internal dimensions and on surfaces of irregular contour; very fine reproduction of detail and complex combinations of surface finish are required; and the part cannot be made by other available methods.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers electroforming practice and describes the processing of mandrels, the design of electroformed articles, and the use of copper and nickel electroplating solutions for electroforming.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Guide
    9 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The four classes of chromium diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon steels); Class II (low-alloy steels); Class III (stainless steels); and Class IV (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, decarburization, chromium content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing chromium (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of chromium halides which transfers chromium to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The chromium-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications (for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts), for electronics applications (including as underplates in contacts or interconnections), and in certain joining applications. Coatings shall be available in any one of the following types: Type 1, coatings electroplated from solutions not containing hardeners, brighteners, or stress control additives; Type 2, electrodeposits used at moderate temperatures, and contain sulfur or other codeposited elements or compounds that are present to increase the hardness, refine grain structure, or control internal stress; and Type 3, electroplates containing dispersed submicron particles such as silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, and aluminum oxide that are present to increase hardness and wear resistance at specified temperatures. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatments to reduce the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness (measured either destructively by microscopical or coulometric method, or nondestructively by magnetic or X-ray method), adhesion (examined either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (assessed either by hot water, ferroxyl, or flowers of sulfur test), workmanship, and hydrogen embrittlement relief.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications, for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts, for electronic applications, including as underplates in contacts or interconnections, and in certain joining applications.  
1.2 Electroplating of nickel for engineering applications (Note 1) requires technical considerations significantly different from decorative applications because the following functional properties are important:  
1.2.1 Hardness, strength, and ductility,  
1.2.2 Wear resistance,  
1.2.3 Load bearing characteristics,  
1.2.4 Corrosion resistance,  
1.2.5 Heat scaling resistance,  
1.2.6 Fretting resistance, and  
1.2.7 Fatigue resistance.  
Note 1: Functional electroplated nickel coatings usually contain about 99 % nickel, and are most frequently electrodeposited from a Watts nickel bath or a nickel sulfamate bath. Typical mechanical properties of nickel electroplated from these baths, and the combined effect of bath operation and solution composition variables on the mechanical properties of the electrodeposit are given in Guide B832. When electroplated nickel is required to have higher hardnesses, greater wear resistance, certain residual stress values and certain leveling characteristics, sulfur and other substances are incorporated in the nickel deposit through the use of certain addition agents in the electroplating solution. For the effect of such additives, see Section 4 and Annex A3. Cobalt salts are sometimes added to the plating solution to produce harder nickel alloy deposits.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    8 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from acidic aqueous solutions to metallic products for use in engineering functions operating at elevated temperatures. The coatings covered here are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by self-sustaining autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. The coatings are grouped into the following classification systems: types, which are based on the general composition with respect to phosphorus; service condition numbers, which are based on the severity of exposure to which the coating is intended to perform and the corresponding minimum thickness that will provide satisfactory performance; and post heat treatment class, which are based on post-plating heat treatment temperature and time to produce the desired adhesion and hardness improvements. Prior to plating, substrates should be pretreated by stress relief for reducing risks of hydrogen embrittlement, peening, and racking. The coatings shall be sampled and tested accordingly to evaluate both acceptance (appearance, thickness, adhesion, and porosity) and qualification requirements (composition, microhardness, and hydrogen embrittlement). Thickness shall be assessed either by microscopical method, a magnetic induction instrument, beta backscatter method, a micrometer, weigh-plate-weigh method, coulometric method, or X-ray spectrometry. Adhesion shall be examined either by bend, impact, or thermal shock tests. And porosity shall be inspected either by ferroxyl test, boiling water test, aerated water test, or alizarin test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from aqueous solutions to metallic products for engineering (functional) uses.  
1.2 The coatings are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. Because the deposited nickel alloy is a catalyst for the reaction, the process is self-sustaining. The chemical and physical properties of the deposit vary primarily with its phosphorus content and subsequent heat treatment. The chemical makeup of the plating solution and the use of the solution can affect the porosity and corrosion resistance of the deposit. For more details, see ASTM STP 265  (1)2 and Refs  (2), (3), (4), and (5).  
1.3 The coatings are generally deposited from acidic solutions operating at elevated temperatures.  
1.4 The process produces coatings of uniform thickness on irregularly shaped parts, provided the plating solution circulates freely over their surfaces.  
1.5 The coatings have multifunctional properties, such as hardness, heat hardenability, abrasion, wear and corrosion resistance, magnetics, electrical conductivity provide diffusion barrier, and solderability. They are also used for the salvage of worn or mismachined parts.  
1.6 The low phosphorus (2 to 4 % P) coatings are microcrystalline and possess high as-plated hardness (620 to 750 HK 100). These coatings are used in applications requiring abrasion and wear resistance.  
1.7 Lower phosphorus deposits in the range between 1 % and 3 % phosphorus are also microcrystalline. These coatings are used in electronic applications providing solderability, bondability, increased electrical conductivity, and resistance to strong alkali solutions.  
1.8 The medium phosphorous coatings (5 to 9 % P) are most widely used to meet the general purpose requirements of wear and corrosion resistance.  
1.9 The high phosphorous (more than 10 % P) coatings have superior salt-spray and acid resistance in a wide range of applications. They are used on beryllium and titanium parts for low stress properties. Coatings with phosphorus contents greater than 11.2 % P are not considered to be ferromagnetic.  
1.10 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.11 The following precautionary statement pertains onl...

  • Technical specification
    17 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    17 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers general requirements and corresponding test methods for electrodeposited coatings of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys on conductive (metallic) and non-conductive substrates (plastics, fibers, carbon foam, etc.) for engineering (functional) uses. The coatings of titanium-zirconium alloys range in zirconium between 10wt% and 14wt% zirconium and are known as ”terne” metallic electrodeposits.
This specification also covers the coating classification system and service condition based on thickness; ordering information to be supplied by the purchaser in either the purchase order or on the engineering drawing, or the part to be plated; material and manufacturing process requirements; sampling; and inspection.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited coatings of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys on conductive and non-conductive substrates for engineering (functional) uses. The coatings of titanium-zirconium alloys are those that range in zirconium between 10wt% and 14wt% zirconium and are known as “terne” metallic electrodeposits.  
1.2 This specification applies for both conductive (metallic) substrates and non-conductive (plastics, fibers, carbon foam, etc.)  
1.3 Electrodeposits of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys on aluminum and conductive substrate and nonconductive substrate are produced where it is desired to obtain atmospheric corrosion resistance. Deposits of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys particularly on aluminum have shown to have excellent corrosion protective qualities in atmospheric exposure, especially when under-coated by electroless nickel. Titanium and titanium-zirconium alloy deposits provide corrosion protection from dilute sulfuric acid, are used for lining of brine refrigeration tanks, chemical equipment apparatus, storage batteries, and as a wear coating for bearing surfaces.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification outlines the requirements for corrosion-resistant coatings of electrodeposited nickel-cobalt on metallic substrates and electrodeposited nickel-cobalt used for electroforming. It includes an accelerated exposure test method to evaluate the effects of corrosion and galling on the nickel-cobalt alloy coating, as well as a means of reporting the results to the purchaser.
This specification incorporates a classification scheme that establishes service condition by thickness, classes of deposits based on the level of monitoring, and type based on supplemental coatings used after deposition. It also provides requirements for materials and manufacture; acceptance tests in terms of appearance, adhesion, and coating thickness, qualification tests (galling test, chemical composition, hydrogen embrittlement test, corrosion testing, environmental testing, third party reports, frequency of qualification tests); sampling; rejection; and certification.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification describes the requirements for corrosion-resistant coatings of electrodeposited nickel-cobalt on metallic substrates and electrodeposited nickel-cobalt used for electroforming.
Note 1: The nickel-cobalt alloy is principally deposited as a coating on steel products. It can also be electrodeposited on iron, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and any other metal substrate.
Note 2: The nickel-cobalt alloy coating has a low coefficient of friction of 0.08 that provides a dry lubricant on part surfaces that are in contact with each other and are subject to galling.  
1.2 This specification incorporates an accelerated exposure test method to evaluate the effects of corrosion and galling on the coating, and incorporates a means of reporting the results to the purchaser.  
1.3 The specification incorporates a classification scheme that establishes service conditions for thickness, classes of deposits based on the level of monitoring, and type based on supplemental coatings used after deposition.  
1.4 The coating thickness ranges from 5 to >30 μm, and it can be applied to machined parts, springs, latches, threaded parts, fasteners, etc. The deposit can also be used to electroform parts requiring high strength with the alloy being maintained at 50 % nickel-cobalt.  
1.5 The nickel-cobalt alloy is used to protect ferrous metals in contact with corrosive environments such as: oil and gas production facilities, coastal marine, and ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) treatments for wood treatments.  
1.6 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.  
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.8 This standard has been revised to comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances RoHS Requirements that seek to limit the exposure of workers and the public to toxic metals. The nickel-cobalt alloy does not contain any of the six Restricted Hazardous Substances.  
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    8 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    8 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This standard contains the requirements for autocatalytic nickel boron alloy coatings deposited from aqueous solutions without the use of external electric sources. The specification classifies the hard, uniform, microporous, and limited corrosion protection coatings as either Type 1 or Type 2 depending on the boron content. Both the physical and mechanical properties of the coatings such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point also vary with the boron content. In general, these coatings are not heat treated to maintain solderability.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification describes the requirements for coatings of autocatalytic nickel boron deposited from aqueous solutions onto substrates for engineering (functional) use. The specification classifies these coatings into two types:  
1.1.1 Type 1 Coatings have a boron content of 0.1 to less than 3.5 mass percent with the balance nickel.  
1.1.2 Type 2 Coatings have a boron content of 3.5 to 6 mass percent and a minimum of 90 mass percent nickel.  
1.2 Nickel boron coatings are produced by autocatalytic (electroless) deposition from aqueous solutions. These solutions contain either an alkylamineborane or sodium borohydride as a reducing agent, a source of nickel ions, a buffer, complexant, and control chemicals.  
1.3 The coatings are hard and uniform in thickness, even on irregular shaped parts, and used in a wide range of applications.  
1.4 Process solutions formulated with an alkylamineborane usually produce coatings that contain 0.1 to 3.5 % boron. Thin coatings of this type provide bondability and solderability on electronic components such as lead frames, electrical contacts, and headers. To maintain solderability, these coatings are generally not heat treated.  
1.5 Process solutions formulated with sodium borohydride are strongly alkaline and are frequently used to plate steel and titanium parts to impart surface hardness and wear resistance properties. Deposits produced from these processes can contain 3 to 5 % boron and thallium or other metals which are used to stabilize the plating solution and modify the coating properties.  
1.6 The physical and mechanical properties of these deposits such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point will vary with the boron content. The variation of boron content also affects the quantity and structure of nickel boride precipitated during heat treatment. In the as-plated condition, the deposit consists of a predominantly amorphous mixture of nickel and boron with a hardness of about 700 HKN. When the deposit is heated above 300 °C, the nickel crystallizes, forming nickel clusters of Ni (111) and boron precipitates as nickel boride, Ni3B (211) and (311), increasing the hardness to greater than 1000 HK100 for Type 2 coatings.  
1.7 The nickel boron coatings are microporous and offer limited corrosion protection. Their columnar structure, however, is beneficial in reducing wear because it provides a means of trapping lubricants within the surface of the coated part.  
1.8 This document describes only autocatalytic nickel boron coatings that have been produced without use of external electric sources.  
1.9 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.10 The following hazards caveat pertains only to the Test Methods section of this specification:  This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.11 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical ...

  • Technical specification
    8 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    8 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This guide provides information on the deposition of engineering chromium by electroplating. This is sometimes called "functional" or "hard" chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits. This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Engineering chromium may be plated directly to the surface of a commonly used engineering metals such as aluminum, nickel alloys, cast iron, steels, copper, copper alloys, and titanium. Substrate requirements including smoothness, fatigue, high-strength steel stress relief, and oxidation are specified. The procedure and requirements for the following are detailed: (1) racking, including rack and anode designs, (2) cleaning, (3) deoxidizing and etching such as anodic etching in chromic acid solution, in plating solution, and in sulfuric acid solution, and slight etching by acid immersion, (4) chromium electroplating process, (5) treatment of chromium coatings such as baking to avoid hydrogen embrittlement, and mechanical finishing by grinding, grinding and honing, or lapping, (6) repair of chromium electrodeposits on steel substrates, and (7) test methods such as thickness determination, hardness test, and adhesion test.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide provides information about the deposition of chromium on steel for engineering uses. This is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits.  
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.3 This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of chromium of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Specified chromium electrodeposits on ferrous surfaces are defined in Specification B650.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Guide
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for multilayer coatings of autocatalytic nickel-phosphorus over autocatalytic copper intended for electromagnetic interference or electrostatic discharge shielding to parts fabricated from either polymeric or metallic substrates or parts. Coatings are classified into four types based on thickness and testing requirements, and into two grades based on alloy composition, specifically phosphorus. Surfaces shall be prepared by cleaning it of surface contaminants, conditioning, and activation; identifying of base material suitability; and mechanical roughening. Coatings shouldl be inspected for process qualification, appearance, blisters, unplated areas, adhesion, electrical continuity, and DC resistance. Coatings should also be tested for thickness, which may be performed either by Coulometric, X-ray, or Beta backscatter methods. The requirements for process qualification shall include coating composition, electrical integrity, adhesion, thermal shock resistance, thermal cycling, and shielding effectiveness.
SCOPE
1.1 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for aluminum diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The three classes of aluminum diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon and low alloy steels); Class II (stainless steels); and Class III (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, high and low activity pack mix, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, diffusion heat treatment, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, aluminum content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for aluminum diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing aluminum (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of aluminum halides which transfers aluminum to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The aluminum-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings (sometimes referred to as functional or hard chromium) applied to ferrous alloy substrates for engineering applications, particularly for increasing wear, abrasion, fretting, and corrosion resistance; for reducing galling or seizing, and static and kinetic friction; and for building up undersize or worn parts. Coatings shall be classified according to their thickness. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, stress relief and hydrogen embrittlement treatment, thickness (to measured either by microscopical, magnetic, coulometric, or X-ray spectrometry method), adhesion (to be assessed either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (to be examined either by ferroxyl, neutral salt spray, or copper sulfate test), workmanship, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings applied to ferrous alloys for engineering applications.  
1.2 Electrodeposited engineering chromium, which is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium, is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is much thicker than decorative chromium. Engineering chromium is used for the following:  
1.2.1 To increase wear and abrasion resistance,  
1.2.2 To increase fretting resistance,  
1.2.3 To reduce static and kinetic friction,  
1.2.4 To reduce galling or seizing, or both, for various metal combinations,  
1.2.5 To increase corrosion resistance, and  
1.2.6 To build up undersize or worn parts.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from acidic aqueous solutions to metallic products for use in engineering functions operating at elevated temperatures. The coatings covered here are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by self-sustaining autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. The coatings are grouped into the following classification systems: types, which are based on the general composition with respect to phosphorus; service condition numbers, which are based on the severity of exposure to which the coating is intended to perform and the corresponding minimum thickness that will provide satisfactory performance; and post heat treatment class, which are based on post-plating heat treatment temperature and time to produce the desired adhesion and hardness improvements. Prior to plating, substrates should be pretreated by stress relief for reducing risks of hydrogen embrittlement, peening, and racking. The coatings shall be sampled and tested accordingly to evaluate both acceptance (appearance, thickness, adhesion, and porosity) and qualification requirements (composition, microhardness, and hydrogen embrittlement). Thickness shall be assessed either by microscopical method, a magnetic induction instrument, beta backscatter method, a micrometer, weigh-plate-weigh method, coulometric method, or X-ray spectrometry. Adhesion shall be examined either by bend, impact, or thermal shock tests. And porosity shall be inspected either by ferroxyl test, boiling water test, aerated water test, or alizarin test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from aqueous solutions to metallic products for engineering (functional) uses.  
1.2 The coatings are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. Because the deposited nickel alloy is a catalyst for the reaction, the process is self-sustaining. The chemical and physical properties of the deposit vary primarily with its phosphorus content and subsequent heat treatment. The chemical makeup of the plating solution and the use of the solution can affect the porosity and corrosion resistance of the deposit. For more details, see ASTM STP 265  (1)2 and Refs  (2), (3), (4), and (5).  
1.3 The coatings are generally deposited from acidic solutions operating at elevated temperatures.  
1.4 The process produces coatings of uniform thickness on irregularly shaped parts, provided the plating solution circulates freely over their surfaces.  
1.5 The coatings have multifunctional properties, such as hardness, heat hardenability, abrasion, wear and corrosion resistance, magnetics, electrical conductivity provide diffusion barrier, and solderability. They are also used for the salvage of worn or mismachined parts.  
1.6 The low phosphorus (2 to 4 % P) coatings are microcrystalline and possess high as-plated hardness (620 to 750 HK 100). These coatings are used in applications requiring abrasion and wear resistance.  
1.7 Lower phosphorus deposits in the range between 1 % and 3 % phosphorus are also microcrystalline. These coatings are used in electronic applications providing solderability, bondability, increased electrical conductivity, and resistance to strong alkali solutions.  
1.8 The medium phosphorous coatings (5 to 9 % P) are most widely used to meet the general purpose requirements of wear and corrosion resistance.  
1.9 The high phosphorous (more than 10 % P) coatings have superior salt-spray and acid resistance in a wide range of applications. They are used on beryllium and titanium parts for low stress properties. Coatings with phosphorus contents greater than 11.2 % P are not considered to be ferromagnetic.  
1.10 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.11 The following precautionary statement pertains onl...

  • Technical specification
    16 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    16 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel (Pd-Ni) coatings for engineering applications. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold over-plate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered. The classification system for the coatings covered here shall be specified by the basis metal, the thickness of the underplating, the composition type and thickness class of the palladium-nickel coating, and the grade of the gold overplating. Coatings should be sampled, tested, and conform to specified requirements as to purity, appearance, thickness, composition, adhesion, ductility, and integrity (including gross defects, mechanical damage, porosity, and microcracks). Alloy composition shall be examined either by wet method, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Auger or electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPMA), or wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS). Coating adhesion shall be analyzed either by bend, heat, or cutting test.
SCOPE
1.1 Composition—This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel coatings containing between 70 and 95 mass % of palladium metal. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold overplate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered.  
1.2 Properties—Palladium is the lightest and least noble of the platinum group metals. Palladium-nickel is a solid solution alloy of palladium and nickel. Electroplated palladium-nickel alloys have a density between 10 and 11.5, which is substantially less than electroplated gold (17.0 to 19.3) and comparable to electroplated pure palladium (10.5 to 11.8). This yields a greater volume or thickness of coating per unit mass and, consequently, some saving of metal weight. The hardness range of electrodeposited palladium-nickel compares favorably with electroplated noble metals and their alloys (1, 2).2  
Note 1: Electroplated deposits generally have a lower density than their wrought metal counterparts.
Approximate Hardness (HK25)  
Gold  
50–250  
Palladium  
75–600  
Platinum  
150–550  
Palladium-Nickel  
300–650  
Rhodium  
750–1100  
Ruthenium  
600–1300  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    10 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    10 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    10 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings (sometimes referred to as functional or hard chromium) applied to ferrous alloy substrates for engineering applications, particularly for increasing wear, abrasion, fretting, and corrosion resistance; for reducing galling or seizing, and static and kinetic friction; and for building up undersize or worn parts. Coatings shall be classified according to their thickness. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, stress relief and hydrogen embrittlement treatment, thickness (to measured either by microscopical, magnetic, coulometric, or X-ray spectrometry method), adhesion (to be assessed either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (to be examined either by ferroxyl, neutral salt spray, or copper sulfate test), workmanship, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings applied to ferrous alloys for engineering applications.  
1.2 Electrodeposited engineering chromium, which is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium, is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is much thicker than decorative chromium. Engineering chromium is used for the following:  
1.2.1 To increase wear and abrasion resistance,  
1.2.2 To increase fretting resistance,  
1.2.3 To reduce static and kinetic friction,  
1.2.4 To reduce galling or seizing, or both, for various metal combinations,  
1.2.5 To increase corrosion resistance, and  
1.2.6 To build up undersize or worn parts.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications (for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts), for electronics applications (including as underplates in contacts or interconnections), and in certain joining applications. Coatings shall be available in any one of the following types: Type 1, coatings electroplated from solutions not containing hardeners, brighteners, or stress control additives; Type 2, electrodeposits used at moderate temperatures, and contain sulfur or other codeposited elements or compounds that are present to increase the hardness, refine grain structure, or control internal stress; and Type 3, electroplates containing dispersed submicron particles such as silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, and aluminum oxide that are present to increase hardness and wear resistance at specified temperatures. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatments to reduce the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness (measured either destructively by microscopical or coulometric method, or nondestructively by magnetic or X-ray method), adhesion (examined either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (assessed either by hot water, ferroxyl, or flowers of sulfur test), workmanship, and hydrogen embrittlement relief.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications, for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts, for electronic applications, including as underplates in contacts or interconnections, and in certain joining applications.  
1.2 Electroplating of nickel for engineering applications (Note 1) requires technical considerations significantly different from decorative applications because the following functional properties are important:  
1.2.1 Hardness, strength, and ductility,  
1.2.2 Wear resistance,  
1.2.3 Load bearing characteristics,  
1.2.4 Corrosion resistance,  
1.2.5 Heat scaling resistance,  
1.2.6 Fretting resistance, and  
1.2.7 Fatigue resistance.  
Note 1: Functional electroplated nickel coatings usually contain about 99 % nickel, and are most frequently electrodeposited from a Watts nickel bath or a nickel sulfamate bath. Typical mechanical properties of nickel electroplated from these baths, and the combined effect of bath operation and solution composition variables on the mechanical properties of the electrodeposit are given in Guide B832. When electroplated nickel is required to have higher hardnesses, greater wear resistance, certain residual stress values and certain leveling characteristics, sulfur and other substances are incorporated in the nickel deposit through the use of certain addition agents in the electroplating solution. For the effect of such additives, see Section 4 and Annex A3. Cobalt salts are sometimes added to the plating solution to produce harder nickel alloy deposits.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The specialized use of the electroplating process for electroforming results in the manufacture of tools and products that are unique and often impossible to make economically by traditional methods of fabrication. Current applications of nickel electroforming include: textile printing screens; components of rocket thrust chambers, nozzles, and motor cases; molds and dies for making automotive arm-rests and instrument panels; stampers for making phonograph records, video-discs, and audio compact discs; mesh products for making porous battery electrodes, filters, and razor screens; and optical parts, bellows, and radar wave guides (1-3).3  
4.2 Copper is extensively used for electroforming thin foil for the printed circuit industry. Copper foil is formed continuously by electrodeposition onto rotating drums. Copper is often used as a backing material for electroformed nickel shells and in other applications where its high thermal and electrical conductivities are required. Other metals including gold are electroformed on a smaller scale.  
4.3 Electroforming is used whenever the difficulty and cost of producing the object by mechanical means is unusually high; unusual mechanical and physical properties are required in the finished piece; extremely close dimensional tolerances must be held on internal dimensions and on surfaces of irregular contour; very fine reproduction of detail and complex combinations of surface finish are required; and the part cannot be made by other available methods.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers electroforming practice and describes the processing of mandrels, the design of electroformed articles, and the use of copper and nickel electroplating solutions for electroforming.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Guide
    9 pages
    English language
  • Guide
    9 pages
    English language
  • Guide
    9 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited copper coatings used for engineering purposes including surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interference shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations. This specification does not cover electrodeposited copper used as a decorative finish, as an undercoat for other decorative finishes, or for electroforming. Coatings shall be classified according to thickness. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatment for reducing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness, porosity, solderability, adhesion, embrittlement relief, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited coatings of copper used for engineering purposes. Examples include surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interferences (EMI) shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations.  
1.2 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used as a decorative finish, or as an undercoat for other decorative finishes.  
1.3 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used for electroforming.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The four classes of chromium diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon steels); Class II (low-alloy steels); Class III (stainless steels); and Class IV (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, decarburization, chromium content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing chromium (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of chromium halides which transfers chromium to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The chromium-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications (for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts), for electronics applications (including as underplates in contacts or interconnections), and in certain joining applications. Coatings shall be available in any one of the following types: Type 1, coatings electroplated from solutions not containing hardeners, brighteners, or stress control additives; Type 2, electrodeposits used at moderate temperatures, and contain sulfur or other codeposited elements or compounds that are present to increase the hardness, refine grain structure, or control internal stress; and Type 3, electroplates containing dispersed submicron particles such as silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, and aluminum oxide that are present to increase hardness and wear resistance at specified temperatures. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatments to reduce the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness (measured either destructively by microscopical or coulometric method, or nondestructively by magnetic or X-ray method), adhesion (examined either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (assessed either by hot water, ferroxyl, or flowers of sulfur test), workmanship, and hydrogen embrittlement relief.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications, for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts, for electronic applications, including as underplates in contacts or interconnections, and in certain joining applications.  
1.2 Electroplating of nickel for engineering applications (Note 1) requires technical considerations significantly different from decorative applications because the following functional properties are important:  
1.2.1 Hardness, strength, and ductility,  
1.2.2 Wear resistance,  
1.2.3 Load bearing characteristics,  
1.2.4 Corrosion resistance,  
1.2.5 Heat scaling resistance,  
1.2.6 Fretting resistance, and  
1.2.7 Fatigue resistance.  
Note 1: Functional electroplated nickel coatings usually contain about 99 % nickel, and are most frequently electrodeposited from a Watts nickel bath or a nickel sulfamate bath. Typical mechanical properties of nickel electroplated from these baths, and the combined effect of bath operation and solution composition variables on the mechanical properties of the electrodeposit are given in Guide B832. When electroplated nickel is required to have higher hardnesses, greater wear resistance, certain residual stress values and certain leveling characteristics, sulfur and other substances are incorporated in the nickel deposit through the use of certain addition agents in the electroplating solution. For the effect of such additives, see Section 4 and Annex A3. Cobalt salts are sometimes added to the plating solution to produce harder nickel alloy deposits.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This guide provides information on the deposition of engineering chromium by electroplating. This is sometimes called "functional" or "hard" chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits. This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Engineering chromium may be plated directly to the surface of a commonly used engineering metals such as aluminum, nickel alloys, cast iron, steels, copper, copper alloys, and titanium. Substrate requirements including smoothness, fatigue, high-strength steel stress relief, and oxidation are specified. The procedure and requirements for the following are detailed: (1) racking, including rack and anode designs, (2) cleaning, (3) deoxidizing and etching such as anodic etching in chromic acid solution, in plating solution, and in sulfuric acid solution, and slight etching by acid immersion, (4) chromium electroplating process, (5) treatment of chromium coatings such as baking to avoid hydrogen embrittlement, and mechanical finishing by grinding, grinding and honing, or lapping, (6) repair of chromium electrodeposits on steel substrates, and (7) test methods such as thickness determination, hardness test, and adhesion test.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide provides information about the deposition of chromium on steel for engineering uses. This is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits.  
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.3 This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of chromium of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Specified chromium electrodeposits on ferrous surfaces are defined in Specification B650.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

  • Guide
    6 pages
    English language
  • Guide
    6 pages
    English language

SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited coatings of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys on conductive and non-conductive substrates for engineering (functional) uses. The coatings of titanium-zirconium alloys are those that range in zirconium between 10wt% and 14wt% zirconium and are known as “terne” metallic electrodeposits.  
1.2 This specification applies for both conductive (metallic) substrates and non-conductive (plastics, fibers, carbon foam, etc.)  
1.3 Electrodeposits of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys on aluminum and conductive substrate and nonconductive substrate are produced where it is desired to obtain atmospheric corrosion resistance. Deposits of titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys particularly on aluminum have shown to have excellent corrosion protective qualities in atmospheric exposure, especially when under-coated by electroless nickel. Titanium and titanium-zirconium alloy deposits provide corrosion protection from dilute sulfuric acid, are used for lining of brine refrigeration tanks, chemical equipment apparatus, storage batteries, and as a wear coating for bearing surfaces.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from acidic aqueous solutions to metallic products for use in engineering functions operating at elevated temperatures. The coatings covered here are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by self-sustaining autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. The coatings are grouped into the following classification systems: types, which are based on the general composition with respect to phosphorus; service condition numbers, which are based on the severity of exposure to which the coating is intended to perform and the corresponding minimum thickness that will provide satisfactory performance; and post heat treatment class, which are based on post-plating heat treatment temperature and time to produce the desired adhesion and hardness improvements. Prior to plating, substrates should be pretreated by stress relief for reducing risks of hydrogen embrittlement, peening, and racking. The coatings shall be sampled and tested accordingly to evaluate both acceptance (appearance, thickness, adhesion, and porosity) and qualification requirements (composition, microhardness, and hydrogen embrittlement). Thickness shall be assessed either by microscopical method, a magnetic induction instrument, beta backscatter method, a micrometer, weigh-plate-weigh method, coulometric method, or X-ray spectrometry. Adhesion shall be examined either by bend, impact, or thermal shock tests. And porosity shall be inspected either by ferroxyl test, boiling water test, aerated water test, or alizarin test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from aqueous solutions to metallic products for engineering (functional) uses.  
1.2 The coatings are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. Because the deposited nickel alloy is a catalyst for the reaction, the process is self-sustaining. The chemical and physical properties of the deposit vary primarily with its phosphorus content and subsequent heat treatment. The chemical makeup of the plating solution and the use of the solution can affect the porosity and corrosion resistance of the deposit. For more details, see ASTM STP 265  (1)2 and Refs  (2) (3) (4) and (5).  
1.3 The coatings are generally deposited from acidic solutions operating at elevated temperatures.  
1.4 The process produces coatings of uniform thickness on irregularly shaped parts, provided the plating solution circulates freely over their surfaces.  
1.5 The coatings have multifunctional properties, such as hardness, heat hardenability, abrasion, wear and corrosion resistance, magnetics, electrical conductivity provide diffusion barrier, and solderability. They are also used for the salvage of worn or mismachined parts.  
1.6 The low phosphorus (2 to 4 % P) coatings are microcrystalline and possess high as-plated hardness (620 to 750 HK 100). These coatings are used in applications requiring abrasion and wear resistance.  
1.7 Lower phosphorus deposits in the range between 1 and 3 % phosphorus are also microcrystalline. These coatings are used in electronic applications providing solderability, bondability, increased electrical conductivity, and resistance to strong alkali solutions.  
1.8 The medium phosphorous coatings (5 to 9 % P) are most widely used to meet the general purpose requirements of wear and corrosion resistance.  
1.9 The high phosphorous (more than 10 % P) coatings have superior salt-spray and acid resistance in a wide range of applications. They are used on beryllium and titanium parts for low stress properties. Coatings with phosphorus contents greater than 11.2 % P are not considered to be ferromagnetic.  
1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.11 The following precautionary statement pertains only to the t...

  • Technical specification
    14 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    14 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This standard contains the requirements for autocatalytic nickel boron alloy coatings deposited from aqueous solutions without the use of external electric sources. The specification classifies the hard, uniform, microporous, and limited corrosion protection coatings as either Type 1 or Type 2 depending on the boron content. Both the physical and mechanical properties of the coatings such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point also vary with the boron content. In general, these coatings are not heat treated to maintain solderability.
SCOPE
1.1 Nickel boron coatings are produced by autocatalytic (electroless) deposition from aqueous solutions. These solutions contain either an alkylamineborane or sodium borohydride as a reducing agent, a source of nickel ions, a buffer, complexant, and control chemicals.  
1.2 This specification describes the requirements for coatings of autocatalytic nickel boron deposited from aqueous solutions onto substrates for engineering use. The specification classifies these coatings into two types:  
1.2.1 Type 1 coatings  have a boron content of 0.1 to less than 3.5 mass percent with the balance nickel.  
1.2.2 Type 2 coatings  have a boron content of 3.5 to 6 mass percent and a minimum of 90 mass percent nickel.  
1.3 The coatings are hard and uniform in thickness, even on irregular shaped parts, and used in a wide range of applications.  
1.4 Process solutions formulated with an alkylamineborane usually produce coatings that contain 0.1 to 3.5 % boron. Thin coatings of this type provide bondability and solderability on electronic components such as lead frames, electrical contacts, and headers. To maintain solderability, these coatings are generally not heat treated.  
1.5 Process solutions formulated with sodium borohydride are strongly alkaline and are frequently used to plate steel and titanium parts to impart surface hardness and wear resistance properties. Deposits produced from these processes can contain 3 to 5 % boron and thallium or other metals which are used to stabilize the plating solution and modify the coating properties.  
1.6 The physical and mechanical properties of these deposits such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point will vary with the boron content. The variation of boron content also affects the quantity and structure of nickel boride precipitated during heat treatment. In the as-plated condition the deposit consists of a predominantly amorphous mixture of nickel and boron with a hardness of about 700 HKN. When the deposit is heated above 300°C the nickel crystallizes, forming nickel clusters of Ni (111) and boron precipitates as nickel boride, Ni3B (211) and (311), increasing the hardness to greater than 1000 HK100 for Type 2 coatings.  
1.7 The nickel boron coatings are microporous and offer limited corrosion protection. Their columnar structure, however, is beneficial in reducing wear because it provides a means of trapping lubricants within the surface of the coated part.  
1.8 This document describes only autocatalytic nickel boron coatings that have been produced without use of external electric sources.  
1.9 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.10 The following hazards caveat pertains only to the Test Methods section of this specification:  This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: The following AMS standards are not requirements. They are referenced for information only: AMS 2399 and AMS 2433.

  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification outlines the requirements for corrosion-resistant coatings of electrodeposited nickel-cobalt on metallic substrates and electrodeposited nickel-cobalt used for electroforming. It includes an accelerated exposure test method to evaluate the effects of corrosion and galling on the nickel-cobalt alloy coating, as well as a means of reporting the results to the purchaser.
This specification incorporates a classification scheme that establishes service condition by thickness, classes of deposits based on the level of monitoring, and type based on supplemental coatings used after deposition. It also provides requirements for materials and manufacture; acceptance tests in terms of appearance, adhesion, and coating thickness, qualification tests (galling test, chemical composition, hydrogen embrittlement test, corrosion testing, environmental testing, third party reports, frequency of qualification tests); sampling; rejection; and certification.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification describes the requirements for corrosion-resistant coatings of electrodeposited nickel-cobalt on metallic substrates and electrodeposited nickel-cobalt used for electroforming.
Note 1: The nickel-cobalt alloy is principally deposited as a coating on steel products. It can also be electrodeposited on iron, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and any other metal substrate.
Note 2: The nickel-cobalt alloy coating has a low coefficient of friction of 0.08 that provides a dry lubricant on part surfaces that are in contact with each other and are subject to galling.  
1.2 This specification incorporates an accelerated exposure test method to evaluate the effects of corrosion and galling on the coating, and incorporates a means of reporting the results to the purchaser.  
1.3 The specification incorporates a classification scheme that establishes service conditions for thickness, classes of deposits based on the level of monitoring, and type based on supplemental coatings used after deposition.  
1.4 The coating thickness ranges from 5 to >30 μm, and it can be applied to machined parts, springs, latches, threaded parts, fasteners, etc. The deposit can also be used to electroform parts requiring high strength with the alloy being maintained at 50% nickel-cobalt.  
1.5 The nickel-cobalt alloy is used to protect ferrous metals in contact with corrosive environments such as: oil and gas production facilities, costal marine, and ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) treatments for wood treatments.  
1.6 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.8 This standard has been revised to comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances RoHS Requirements that seek to limit the exposure of workers and the public to toxic metals. The nickel-cobalt alloy does not contain any of the six Restricted Hazardous Substances.

  • Technical specification
    8 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This standard contains the requirements for autocatalytic nickel boron alloy coatings deposited from aqueous solutions without the use of external electric sources. The specification classifies the hard, uniform, microporous, and limited corrosion protection coatings as either Type 1 or Type 2 depending on the boron content. Both the physical and mechanical properties of the coatings such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point also vary with the boron content. In general, these coatings are not heat treated to maintain solderability.
SCOPE
1.1 Nickel boron coatings are produced by autocatalytic (electroless) deposition from aqueous solutions. These solutions contain either an alkylamineborane or sodium borohydride as a reducing agent, a source of nickel ions, a buffer, complexant, and control chemicals.  
1.2 This specification describes the requirements for coatings of autocatalytic nickel boron deposited from aqueous solutions onto substrates for engineering use. The specification classifies these coatings into two types:  
1.2.1 Type 1 coatings  have a boron content of 0.1 to less than 3.5 mass percent with the balance nickel.  
1.2.2 Type 2 coatings  have a boron content of 3.5 to 6 mass percent and a minimum of 90 mass percent nickel.  
1.3 The coatings are hard and uniform in thickness, even on irregular shaped parts, and used in a wide range of applications.  
1.4 Process solutions formulated with an alkylamineborane usually produce coatings that contain 0.1 to 3.5 % boron. Thin coatings of this type provide bondability and solderability on electronic components such as lead frames, electrical contacts, and headers. To maintain solderability, these coatings are generally not heat treated.  
1.5 Process solutions formulated with sodium borohydride are strongly alkaline and are frequently used to plate steel and titanium parts to impart surface hardness and wear resistance properties. Deposits produced from these processes can contain 3 to 5 % boron and thallium or other metals which are used to stabilize the plating solution and modify the coating properties.  
1.6 The physical and mechanical properties of these deposits such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point will vary with the boron content. The variation of boron content also affects the quantity and structure of nickel boride precipitated during heat treatment. In the as-plated condition the deposit consists of a predominantly amorphous mixture of nickel and boron with a hardness of about 700 HKN. When the deposit is heated above 300°C the nickel crystallizes, forming nickel clusters of Ni (111) and boron precipitates as nickel boride, Ni3B (211) and (311), increasing the hardness to greater than 1000 HK100 for Type 2 coatings.  
1.7 The nickel boron coatings are microporous and offer limited corrosion protection. Their columnar structure, however, is beneficial in reducing wear because it provides a means of trapping lubricants within the surface of the coated part.  
1.8 This document describes only autocatalytic nickel boron coatings that have been produced without use of external electric sources.  
1.9 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.10 The following hazards caveat pertains only to the Test Methods section of this specification:  This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: The following AMS standards are not requirements. They are referenced for information only: AMS 2399 and AMS 2433.

  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for multilayer coatings of autocatalytic nickel-phosphorus over autocatalytic copper intended for electromagnetic interference or electrostatic discharge shielding to parts fabricated from either polymeric or metallic substrates or parts. Coatings are classified into four types based on thickness and testing requirements, and into two grades based on alloy composition, specifically phosphorus. Surfaces shall be prepared by cleaning it of surface contaminants, conditioning, and activation; identifying of base material suitability; and mechanical roughening. Coatings shouldl be inspected for process qualification, appearance, blisters, unplated areas, adhesion, electrical continuity, and DC resistance. Coatings should also be tested for thickness, which may be performed either by Coulometric, X-ray, or Beta backscatter methods. The requirements for process qualification shall include coating composition, electrical integrity, adhesion, thermal shock resistance, thermal cycling, and shielding effectiveness.
SCOPE
This specification presents the requirements for multilayer coatings of autocatalytic nickel-phosphorus over autocatalytic copper on metallic and polymeric substrates. The coating system is intended to provide electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection properties or electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection to parts fabricated from either polymeric or metallic materials.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from acidic aqueous solutions to metallic products for use in engineering functions operating at elevated temperatures. The coatings covered here are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by self-sustaining autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. The coatings are grouped into the following classification systems: types, which are based on the general composition with respect to phosphorus; service condition numbers, which are based on the severity of exposure to which the coating is intended to perform and the corresponding minimum thickness that will provide satisfactory performance; and post heat treatment class, which are based on post-plating heat treatment temperature and time to produce the desired adhesion and hardness improvements. Prior to plating, substrates should be pretreated by stress relief for reducing risks of hydrogen embrittlement, peening, and racking. The coatings shall be sampled and tested accordingly to evaluate both acceptance (appearance, thickness, adhesion, and porosity) and qualification requirements (composition, microhardness, and hydrogen embrittlement). Thickness shall be assessed either by microscopical method, a magnetic induction instrument, beta backscatter method, a micrometer, weigh-plate-weigh method, coulometric method, or X-ray spectrometry. Adhesion shall be examined either by bend, impact, or thermal shock tests. And porosity shall be inspected either by ferroxyl test, boiling water test, aerated water test, or alizarin test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from aqueous solutions to metallic products for engineering (functional) uses.  
1.2 The coatings are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. Because the deposited nickel alloy is a catalyst for the reaction, the process is self-sustaining. The chemical and physical properties of the deposit vary primarily with its phosphorus content and subsequent heat treatment. The chemical makeup of the plating solution and the use of the solution can affect the porosity and corrosion resistance of the deposit. For more details, see ASTM STP 265  (1)2 and Refs  (2) (3) (4) and (5).  
1.3 The coatings are generally deposited from acidic solutions operating at elevated temperatures.  
1.4 The process produces coatings of uniform thickness on irregularly shaped parts, provided the plating solution circulates freely over their surfaces.  
1.5 The coatings have multifunctional properties, such as hardness, heat hardenability, abrasion, wear and corrosion resistance, magnetics, electrical conductivity provide diffusion barrier, and solderability. They are also used for the salvage of worn or mismachined parts.  
1.6 The low phosphorus (2 to 4 % P) coatings are microcrystalline and possess high as-plated hardness (620 to 750 HK 100). These coatings are used in applications requiring abrasion and wear resistance.  
1.7 Lower phosphorus deposits in the range between 1 and 3 % phosphorus are also microcrystalline. These coatings are used in electronic applications providing solderability, bondability, increased electrical conductivity, and resistance to strong alkali solutions.  
1.8 The medium phosphorous coatings (5 to 9 % P) are most widely used to meet the general purpose requirements of wear and corrosion resistance.  
1.9 The high phosphorous (more than 10 % P) coatings have superior salt-spray and acid resistance in a wide range of applications. They are used on beryllium and titanium parts for low stress properties. Coatings with phosphorus contents greater than 11.2 % P are not considered to be ferromagnetic.  
1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.11 The following precautionary statement pertains only to the t...

  • Technical specification
    14 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    14 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for aluminum diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The three classes of aluminum diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon and low alloy steels); Class II (stainless steels); and Class III (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, high and low activity pack mix, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, diffusion heat treatment, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, aluminum content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for aluminum diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing aluminum (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of aluminum halides which transfers aluminum to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The aluminum-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel (Pd-Ni) coatings for engineering applications. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold over-plate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered. The classification system for the coatings covered here shall be specified by the basis metal, the thickness of the underplating, the composition type and thickness class of the palladium-nickel coating, and the grade of the gold overplating. Coatings should be sampled, tested, and conform to specified requirements as to purity, appearance, thickness, composition, adhesion, ductility, and integrity (including gross defects, mechanical damage, porosity, and microcracks). Alloy composition shall be examined either by wet method, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Auger or electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPMA), or wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS). Coating adhesion shall be analyzed either by bend, heat, or cutting test.
SCOPE
1.1 Composition—This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel coatings containing between 70 and 95 mass % of palladium metal. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold overplate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered.  
1.2 Properties—Palladium is the lightest and least noble of the platinum group metals. Palladium-nickel is a solid solution alloy of palladium and nickel. Electroplated palladium-nickel alloys have a density between 10 and 11.5, which is substantially less than electroplated gold (17.0 to 19.3) and comparable to electroplated pure palladium (10.5 to 11.8). This yields a greater volume or thickness of coating per unit mass and, consequently, some saving of metal weight. The hardness range of electrodeposited palladium-nickel compares favorably with electroplated noble metals and their alloys (1, 2).2 Note 1—Electroplated deposits generally have a lower density than their wrought metal counterparts.
Approximate Hardness (HK25)  
Gold  
50–250  
Palladium  
75–600  
Platinum  
150–550  
Palladium-Nickel  
300–650  
Rhodium  
750–1100  
Ruthenium  
600–1300
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    10 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications (for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts), for electronics applications (including as underplates in contacts or interconnections), and in certain joining applications. Coatings shall be available in any one of the following types: Type 1, coatings electroplated from solutions not containing hardeners, brighteners, or stress control additives; Type 2, electrodeposits used at moderate temperatures, and contain sulfur or other codeposited elements or compounds that are present to increase the hardness, refine grain structure, or control internal stress; and Type 3, electroplates containing dispersed submicron particles such as silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, and aluminum oxide that are present to increase hardness and wear resistance at specified temperatures. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatments to reduce the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness (measured either destructively by microscopical or coulometric method, or nondestructively by magnetic or X-ray method), adhesion (examined either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (assessed either by hot water, ferroxyl, or flowers of sulfur test), workmanship, and hydrogen embrittlement relief.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications, for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts, for electronic applications, including as underplates in contacts or interconnections, and in certain joining applications.  
1.2 Electroplating of nickel for engineering applications (Note 1) requires technical considerations significantly different from decorative applications because the following functional properties are important:  
1.2.1 Hardness, strength, and ductility,  
1.2.2 Wear resistance,  
1.2.3 Load bearing characteristics,  
1.2.4 Corrosion resistance,  
1.2.5 Heat scaling resistance,  
1.2.6 Fretting resistance, and  
1.2.7 Fatigue resistance. Note 1—Functional electroplated nickel coatings usually contain about 99 % nickel, and are most frequently electrodeposited from a Watts nickel bath or a nickel sulfamate bath. Typical mechanical properties of nickel electroplated from these baths, and the combined effect of bath operation and solution composition variables on the mechanical properties of the electrodeposit are given in Guide B832. When electroplated nickel is required to have higher hardnesses, greater wear resistance, certain residual stress values and certain leveling characteristics, sulfur and other substances are incorporated in the nickel deposit through the use of certain addition agents in the electroplating solution. For the effect of such additives, see Section 4 and Annex A3. Cobalt salts are sometimes added to the plating solution to produce harder nickel alloy deposits.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited copper coatings used for engineering purposes including surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interference shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations. This specification does not cover electrodeposited copper used as a decorative finish, as an undercoat for other decorative finishes, or for electroforming. Coatings shall be classified according to thickness. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatment for reducing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness, porosity, solderability, adhesion, embrittlement relief, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited coatings of copper used for engineering purposes. Examples include surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interferences (EMI) shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations.  
1.2 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used as a decorative finish, or as an undercoat for other decorative finishes.  
1.3 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used for electroforming.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The specialized use of the electroplating process for electroforming results in the manufacture of tools and products that are unique and often impossible to make economically by traditional methods of fabrication. Current applications of nickel electroforming include: textile printing screens; components of rocket thrust chambers, nozzles, and motor cases; molds and dies for making automotive arm-rests and instrument panels; stampers for making phonograph records, video-discs, and audio compact discs; mesh products for making porous battery electrodes, filters, and razor screens; and optical parts, bellows, and radar wave guides (1-3).3  
4.2 Copper is extensively used for electroforming thin foil for the printed circuit industry. Copper foil is formed continuously by electrodeposition onto rotating drums. Copper is often used as a backing material for electroformed nickel shells and in other applications where its high thermal and electrical conductivities are required. Other metals including gold are electroformed on a smaller scale.  
4.3 Electroforming is used whenever the difficulty and cost of producing the object by mechanical means is unusually high; unusual mechanical and physical properties are required in the finished piece; extremely close dimensional tolerances must be held on internal dimensions and on surfaces of irregular contour; very fine reproduction of detail and complex combinations of surface finish are required; and the part cannot be made by other available methods.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers electroforming practice and describes the processing of mandrels, the design of electroformed articles, and the use of copper and nickel electroplating solutions for electroforming.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Guide
    9 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings (sometimes referred to as functional or hard chromium) applied to ferrous alloy substrates for engineering applications, particularly for increasing wear, abrasion, fretting, and corrosion resistance; for reducing galling or seizing, and static and kinetic friction; and for building up undersize or worn parts. Coatings shall be classified according to their thickness. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, stress relief and hydrogen embrittlement treatment, thickness (to measured either by microscopical, magnetic, coulometric, or X-ray spectrometry method), adhesion (to be assessed either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (to be examined either by ferroxyl, neutral salt spray, or copper sulfate test), workmanship, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings applied to ferrous alloys for engineering applications.  
1.2 Electrodeposited engineering chromium, which is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium, is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is much thicker than decorative chromium. Engineering chromium is used for the following:  
1.2.1 To increase wear and abrasion resistance,  
1.2.2 To increase fretting resistance,  
1.2.3 To reduce static and kinetic friction,  
1.2.4 To reduce galling or seizing, or both, for various metal combinations,  
1.2.5 To increase corrosion resistance, and  
1.2.6 To build up undersize or worn parts.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The four classes of chromium diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon steels); Class II (low-alloy steels); Class III (stainless steels); and Class IV (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, decarburization, chromium content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing chromium (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of chromium halides which transfers chromium to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The chromium-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This guide provides information on the deposition of engineering chromium by electroplating. This is sometimes called "functional" or "hard" chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits. This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Engineering chromium may be plated directly to the surface of a commonly used engineering metals such as aluminum, nickel alloys, cast iron, steels, copper, copper alloys, and titanium. Substrate requirements including smoothness, fatigue, high-strength steel stress relief, and oxidation are specified. The procedure and requirements for the following are detailed: (1) racking, including rack and anode designs, (2) cleaning, (3) deoxidizing and etching such as anodic etching in chromic acid solution, in plating solution, and in sulfuric acid solution, and slight etching by acid immersion, (4) chromium electroplating process, (5) treatment of chromium coatings such as baking to avoid hydrogen embrittlement, and mechanical finishing by grinding, grinding and honing, or lapping, (6) repair of chromium electrodeposits on steel substrates, and (7) test methods such as thickness determination, hardness test, and adhesion test.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide provides information about the deposition of chromium on steel for engineering uses. This is sometimes called “functional” or “hard” chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits.
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.3 This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of chromium of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Specified chromium electrodeposits on ferrous surfaces are defined in Specification B650.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Guide
    6 pages
    English language
  • Guide
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This standard contains the requirements for autocatalytic nickel boron alloy coatings deposited from aqueous solutions without the use of external electric sources. The specification classifies the hard, uniform, microporous, and limited corrosion protection coatings as either Type 1 or Type 2 depending on the boron content. Both the physical and mechanical properties of the coatings such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point also vary with the boron content. In general, these coatings are not heat treated to maintain solderability.
SCOPE
1.1 Nickel boron coatings are produced by autocatalytic (electroless) deposition from aqueous solutions. These solutions contain either an alkylamineborane or sodium borohydride as a reducing agent, a source of nickel ions, a buffer, complexant, and control chemicals.
1.2 This specificationdescribes the requirements for coatings of autocatalytic nickel boron deposited from aqueous solutions onto substrates for engineering use. The specification classifies these coatings into two types:
1.2.1 Type 1 coatings  have a boron content of 0.1 to less than 3.5 mass percent with the balance nickel.
1.2.2 Type 2 coatings  have a boron content of 3.5 to 6 mass percent and a minimum of 90 mass percent nickel.
1.3 The coatings are hard and uniform in thickness, even on irregular shaped parts, and used in a wide range of applications.  
1.4 Process solutions formulated with an alkylamineborane usually produce coatings that contain 0.1 to 3.5 % boron. Thin coatings of this type provide bondability and solderability on electronic components such as lead frames, electrical contacts, and headers. To maintain solderability, these coatings are generally not heat treated.
1.5 Process solutions formulated with sodium borohydride are strongly alkaline and are frequently used to plate steel and titanium parts to impart surface hardness and wear resistance properties. Deposits produced from these processes can contain 3 to 5 % boron and thallium or other metals which are used to stabilize the plating solution and modify the coating properties.
1.6 The physical and mechanical properties of these deposits such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point will vary with the boron content. The variation of boron content also affects the quantity and structure of nickel boride precipitated during heat treatment. In the as-plated condition the deposit consists of a predominantly amorphous mixture of nickel and boron with a hardness of about 700 HKN. When the deposit is heated above 300°C the nickel crystallizes, forming nickel clusters of Ni (111) and boron precipitates as nickel boride, Ni3B (211) and (311), increasing the hardness to greater than 1000 HK100 for Type 2 coatings.
1.7 The nickel boron coatings are microporous and offer limited corrosion protection. Their columnar structure, however, is beneficial in reducing wear because it provides a means of trapping lubricants within the surface of the coated part.
1.8 This document describes only autocatalytic nickel boron coatings that have been produced without use of external electric sources.  
1.9 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.10 The following hazards caveat pertains only to the Test Methods section of this specification:  This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1—The following AMS standards are not requirements. They are referenced for information only: AMS 2399 and AMS 2433.  
X2.1.1 This test method will evaluate the resistance of the coating to abrasive wear. The test is performed on a rotating plated panel that is abraded by two rotating rubber wheels. The panel is weighed before...

  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for multilayer coatings of autocatalytic nickel-phosphorus over autocatalytic copper intended for electromagnetic interference or electrostatic discharge shielding to parts fabricated from either polymeric or metallic substrates or parts. Coatings are classified into four types based on thickness and testing requirements, and into two grades based on alloy composition, specifically phosphorus. Surfaces shall be prepared by cleaning it of surface contaminants, conditioning, and activation; identifying of base material suitability; and mechanical roughening. Coatings shouldl be inspected for process qualification, appearance, blisters, unplated areas, adhesion, electrical continuity, and DC resistance. Coatings should also be tested for thickness, which may be performed either by Coulometric, X-ray, or Beta backscatter methods. The requirements for process qualification shall include coating composition, electrical integrity, adhesion, thermal shock resistance, thermal cycling, and shielding effectiveness.
SCOPE
This specification presents the requirements for multilayer coatings of autocatalytic nickel-phosphorus over autocatalytic copper on metallic and polymeric substrates. The coating system is intended to provide electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection properties or electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection to parts fabricated from either polymeric or metallic materials.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from acidic aqueous solutions to metallic products for use in engineering functions operating at elevated temperatures. The coatings covered here are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by self-sustaining autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. The coatings are grouped into the following classification systems: types, which are based on the general composition with respect to phosphorus; service condition numbers, which are based on the severity of exposure to which the coating is intended to perform and the corresponding minimum thickness that will provide satisfactory performance; and post heat treatment class, which are based on post-plating heat treatment temperature and time to produce the desired adhesion and hardness improvements. Prior to plating, substrates should be pretreated by stress relief for reducing risks of hydrogen embrittlement, peening, and racking. The coatings shall be sampled and tested accordingly to evaluate both acceptance (appearance, thickness, adhesion, and porosity) and qualification requirements (composition, microhardness, and hydrogen embrittlement). Thickness shall be assessed either by microscopical method, a magnetic induction instrument, beta backscatter method, a micrometer, weigh-plate-weigh method, coulometric method, or X-ray spectrometry. Adhesion shall be examined either by bend, impact, or thermal shock tests. And porosity shall be inspected either by ferroxyl test, boiling water test, aerated water test, or alizarin test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from aqueous solutions to metallic products for engineering (functional) uses.
1.2 The coatings are alloys of nickel and phosphorus produced by autocatalytic chemical reduction with hypophosphite. Because the deposited nickel alloy is a catalyst for the reaction, the process is self-sustaining. The chemical and physical properties of the deposit vary primarily with its phosphorus content and subsequent heat treatment. The chemical makeup of the plating solution and the use of the solution can affect the porosity and corrosion resistance of the deposit. For more details, see ASTM STP 265  (1) and Refs  (2) (3) (4) and (5).  
1.3 The coatings are generally deposited from acidic solutions operating at elevated temperatures.
1.4 The process produces coatings of uniform thickness on irregularly shaped parts, provided the plating solution circulates freely over their surfaces.
1.5 The coatings have multifunctional properties, such as hardness, heat hardenability, abrasion, wear and corrosion resistance, magnetics, electrical conductivity provide diffusion barrier, and solderability. They are also used for the salvage of worn or mismachined parts.
1.6 The low phosphorus (2 to 4 % P) coatings are microcrystalline and possess high as-plated hardness (620 to 750 HK 100). These coatings are used in applications requiring abrasion and wear resistance.  
1.7 Lower phosphorus deposits in the range between 1 and 3 % phosphorus are also microcrystalline. These coatings are used in electronic applications providing solderability, bondability, increased electrical conductivity, and resistance to strong alkali solutions.
1.8 The medium phosphorous coatings (5 to 9 % P) are most widely used to meet the general purpose requirements of wear and corrosion resistance.
1.9 The high phosphorous (more than 10 % P) coatings have superior salt-spray and acid resistance in a wide range of applications. They are used on beryllium and titanium parts for low stress properties. Coatings with phosphorus contents greater than 11.2 % P are not considered to be ferromagnetic.
1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.
1.11 The following precautionary statement pertains only to the test method...

  • Technical specification
    14 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited copper coatings used for engineering purposes including surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interference shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations. This specification does not cover electrodeposited copper used as a decorative finish, as an undercoat for other decorative finishes, or for electroforming. Coatings shall be classified according to thickness. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatment for reducing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness, porosity, solderability, adhesion, embrittlement relief, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited coatings of copper used for engineering purposes. Examples include surface hardening, heat treatment stop-off, as an underplate for other engineering coatings, for electromagnetic interferences (EMI) shielding in electronic circuitry, and in certain joining operations.
1.2 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used as a decorative finish, or as an undercoat for other decorative finishes.
1.3 This specification is not intended for electrodeposited copper when used for electroforming.

  • Technical specification
    4 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications (for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts), for electronics applications (including as underplates in contacts or interconnections), and in certain joining applications. Coatings shall be available in any one of the following types: Type 1, coatings electroplated from solutions not containing hardeners, brighteners, or stress control additives; Type 2, electrodeposits used at moderate temperatures, and contain sulfur or other codeposited elements or compounds that are present to increase the hardness, refine grain structure, or control internal stress; and Type 3, electroplates containing dispersed submicron particles such as silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, and aluminum oxide that are present to increase hardness and wear resistance at specified temperatures. Metal parts shall undergo pre- and post-coating treatments to reduce the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, and peening. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, thickness (measured either destructively by microscopical or coulometric method, or nondestructively by magnetic or X-ray method), adhesion (examined either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (assessed either by hot water, ferroxyl, or flowers of sulfur test), workmanship, and hydrogen embrittlement relief.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electroplated nickel coatings applied to metal products for engineering applications, for example, for use as a buildup for mismachined or worn parts, for electronic applications, including as underplates in contacts or interconnections, and in certain joining applications.
1.2 Electroplating of nickel for engineering applications (Note 1) requires technical considerations significantly different from decorative applications because the following functional properties are important:
1.2.1 Hardness, strength, and ductility,
1.2.2 Wear resistance,
1.2.3 Load bearing characteristics,
1.2.4 Corrosion resistance,
1.2.5 Heat scaling resistance,
1.2.6 Fretting resistance, and
1.2.7 Fatigue resistance.
Note 1—Functional electroplated nickel coatings usually contain about 99 % nickel, and are most frequently electrodeposited from a Watts nickel bath or a nickel sulfamate bath. Typical mechanical properties of nickel electroplated from these baths, and the combined effect of bath operation and solution composition variables on the mechanical properties of the electrodeposit are given in Guide B 832. When electroplated nickel is required to have higher hardnesses, greater wear resistance, certain residual stress values and certain leveling characteristics, sulfur and other substances are incorporated in the nickel deposit through the use of certain addition agents in the electroplating solution. For the effect of such additives, see Section 4 and Annex A3. Cobalt salts are sometimes added to the plating solution to produce harder nickel alloy deposits.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    7 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings (sometimes referred to as functional or hard chromium) applied to ferrous alloy substrates for engineering applications, particularly for increasing wear, abrasion, fretting, and corrosion resistance; for reducing galling or seizing, and static and kinetic friction; and for building up undersize or worn parts. Coatings shall be classified according to their thickness. Coatings shall be sampled, tested, and shall conform accordingly to specified requirements as to appearance, stress relief and hydrogen embrittlement treatment, thickness (to measured either by microscopical, magnetic, coulometric, or X-ray spectrometry method), adhesion (to be assessed either by bend, file, heat and quench, or push test), porosity (to be examined either by ferroxyl, neutral salt spray, or copper sulfate test), workmanship, and packaging.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for electrodeposited chromium coatings applied to ferrous alloys for engineering applications.
1.2 Electrodeposited engineering chromium, which is sometimes called "functional" or "hard" chromium, is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is much thicker than decorative chromium. Engineering chromium is used for the following:
1.2.1 To increase wear and abrasion resistance,
1.2.2 To increase fretting resistance,
1.2.3 To reduce static and kinetic friction,
1.2.4 To reduce galling or seizing, or both, for various metal combinations,
1.2.5 To increase corrosion resistance, and
1.2.6 To build up undersize or worn parts.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    5 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This standard contains the requirements for autocatalytic nickel boron alloy coatings deposited from aqueous solutions without the use of external electric sources. The specification classifies the hard, uniform, microporous, and limited corrosion protection coatings as either Type 1 or Type 2 depending on the boron content. Both the physical and mechanical properties of the coatings such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point also vary with the boron content. In general, these coatings are not heat treated to maintain solderability.
SCOPE
1.1 Nickel boron coatings are produced by autocatalytic (electroless) deposition from aqueous solutions. These solutions contain either an alkylamineborane or sodium borohydride as a reducing agent, a source of nickel ions, a buffer, complexant, and control chemicals.
1.2 This specificationdescribes the requirements for coatings of autocatalytic nickel boron deposited from aqueous solutions onto substrates for engineering use. The specification classifies these coatings into two types:
1.2.1 Type 1 coatings  have a boron content of 0.1 to less than 3.5 mass percent with the balance nickel.
1.2.2 Type 2 coatings  have a boron content of 3.5 to 6 mass percent and a minimum of 90 mass percent nickel.
1.3 The coatings are hard and uniform in thickness, even on irregular shaped parts, and used in a wide range of applications.  
1.4 Process solutions formulated with an alkylamineborane usually produce coatings that contain 0.1 to 3.5 % boron. Thin coatings of this type provide bondability and solderability on electronic components such as lead frames, electrical contacts, and headers. To maintain solderability, these coatings are generally not heat treated.
1.5 Process solutions formulated with sodium borohydride are strongly alkaline and are frequently used to plate steel and titanium parts to impart surface hardness and wear resistance properties. Deposits produced from these processes can contain 3 to 5 % boron and thallium or other metals which are used to stabilize the plating solution and modify the coating properties.
1.6 The physical and mechanical properties of these deposits such as density, hardness, stress, and melting point will vary with the boron content. The variation of boron content also affects the quantity and structure of nickel boride precipitated during heat treatment. In the as-plated condition the deposit consists of a predominantly amorphous mixture of nickel and boron with a hardness of about 700 HKN. When the deposit is heated above 300°C the nickel crystallizes, forming nickel clusters of Ni (111) and boron precipitates as nickel boride, Ni3B (211) and (311), increasing the hardness to greater than 1000 HK100 for Type 2 coatings.
1.7 The nickel boron coatings are microporous and offer limited corrosion protection. Their columnar structure, however, is beneficial in reducing wear because it provides a means of trapping lubricants within the surface of the coated part.
1.8 This document describes only autocatalytic nickel boron coatings that have been produced without use of external electric sources.  
1.9 The following hazards caveat pertains only to the Test Methods section of this specification:  This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1—The following AMS standards are not requirements. They are referenced for information only: AMS 2399 and AMS 2433.  
X2.1.1 This test method will evaluate the resistance of the coating to abrasive wear. The test is performed on a rotating plated panel that is abraded by two rotating rubber wheels. The panel is weighed before and after each 1000 cycles for weight loss determination. Duration of the test is 5000 cycles and it can be extended to 25 000 cy...

  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language
  • Technical specification
    6 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for aluminum diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The three classes of aluminum diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon and low alloy steels); Class II (stainless steels); and Class III (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, high and low activity pack mix, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, diffusion heat treatment, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, aluminum content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for aluminum diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing aluminum (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of aluminum halides which transfers aluminum to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The aluminum-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals applied by pack cementation process. The four classes of chromium diffusion coating, defined by the type of base metal, are as follows: Class I (carbon steels); Class II (low-alloy steels); Class III (stainless steels); and Class IV (nickel-based alloys). Specimens shall adhere to processing requirements such as substrate preparation, materials (masteralloys, activators, and inert fillers), loading, furnace cycle, post cleaning, post straightening, visual inspection, and marking and packaging. Specimens shall also adhere to coating requirements such as diffusion thickness, decarburization, chromium content, appearance, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, and macro- and micro-hardness).
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the requirements for chromium diffusion of metals by the pack cementation method. Pack diffusion employs the chemical vapor deposition of a metal which is subsequently diffused into the surface of a substrate at high temperature. The material to be coated (substrate) is immersed or suspended in a powder containing chromium (source), a halide salt (activator), and an inert diluent such as alumina (filler). When the mixture is heated, the activator reacts to produce an atmosphere of chromium halides which transfers chromium to the substrate for subsequent diffusion. The chromium-rich surface enhances corrosion, thermal stability, and wear-resistant properties.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    3 pages
    English language

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The specialized use of the electroplating process for electroforming results in the manufacture of tools and products that are unique and often impossible to make economically by traditional methods of fabrication. Current applications of nickel electroforming include: textile printing screens; components of rocket thrust chambers, nozzles, and motor cases; molds and dies for making automotive arm-rests and instrument panels; stampers for making phonograph records, video-discs, and audio compact discs; mesh products for making porous battery electrodes, filters, and razor screens; and optical parts, bellows, and radar wave guides (1-3).  
Copper is extensively used for electroforming thin foil for the printed circuit industry. Copper foil is formed continuously by electrodeposition onto rotating drums. Copper is often used as a backing material for electroformed nickel shells and in other applications where its high thermal and electrical conductivities are required. Other metals including gold are electroformed on a smaller scale.
Electroforming is used whenever the difficulty and cost of producing the object by mechanical means is unusually high; unusual mechanical and physical properties are required in the finished piece; extremely close dimensional tolerances must be held on internal dimensions and on surfaces of irregular contour; very fine reproduction of detail and complex combinations of surface finish are required; and the part cannot be made by other available methods.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers electroforming practice and describes the processing of mandrels, the design of electroformed articles, and the use of copper and nickel electroplating solutions for electroforming.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Guide
    9 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This specification establishes the requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel (Pd-Ni) coatings for engineering applications. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold over-plate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered. The classification system for the coatings covered here shall be specified by the basis metal, the thickness of the underplating, the composition type and thickness class of the palladium-nickel coating, and the grade of the gold overplating. Coatings should be sampled, tested, and conform to specified requirements as to purity, appearance, thickness, composition, adhesion, ductility, and integrity (including gross defects, mechanical damage, porosity, and microcracks). Alloy composition shall be examined either by wet method, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Auger or electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPMA), or wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS). Coating adhesion shall be analyzed either by bend, heat, or cutting test.
SCOPE
1.1 Composition—This specification covers requirements for electrodeposited palladium-nickel coatings containing between 70 and 95 mass % of palladium metal. Composite coatings consisting of palladium-nickel and a thin gold overplate for applications involving electrical contacts are also covered.
1.2 Properties—Palladium is the lightest and least noble of the platinum group metals. Palladium-nickel is a solid solution alloy of palladium and nickel. Electroplated palladium-nickel alloys have a density between 10 and 11.5, which is substantially less than electroplated gold (17.0 to 19.3) and comparable to electroplated pure palladium (10.5 to 11.8). This yields a greater volume or thickness of coating per unit mass and, consequently, some saving of metal weight. The hardness range of electrodeposited palladium-nickel compares favorably with electroplated noble metals and their alloys (1, 2).
Note 1—Electroplated deposits generally have a lower density than their wrought metal counterparts.
Approximate Hardness (HK25) Gold 50–250 Palladium 75–600 Platinum150–550 Palladium-Nickel300–650 Rhodium 750–1100 Ruthenium600–1300  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Technical specification
    10 pages
    English language

ABSTRACT
This guide provides information on the deposition of engineering chromium by electroplating. This is sometimes called "functional" or "hard" chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits. This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Engineering chromium may be plated directly to the surface of a commonly used engineering metals such as aluminum, nickel alloys, cast iron, steels, copper, copper alloys, and titanium. Substrate requirements including smoothness, fatigue, high-strength steel stress relief, and oxidation are specified. The procedure and requirements for the following are detailed: (1) racking, including rack and anode designs, (2) cleaning, (3) deoxidizing and etching such as anodic etching in chromic acid solution, in plating solution, and in sulfuric acid solution, and slight etching by acid immersion, (4) chromium electroplating process, (5) treatment of chromium coatings such as baking to avoid hydrogen embrittlement, and mechanical finishing by grinding, grinding and honing, or lapping, (6) repair of chromium electrodeposits on steel substrates, and (7) test methods such as thickness determination, hardness test, and adhesion test.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide provides information about the deposition of chromium on steel for engineering uses. This is sometimes called "functional" or "hard" chromium and is usually applied directly to the basis metal and is usually thicker than decorative deposits.
1.2 This guide is not intended as a standardized procedure, but as a guide for obtaining smooth, adherent coatings of chromium of a desired thickness while retaining the required physical and mechanical properties of the base metals. Specified chromium electrodeposits on ferrous surfaces are defined in Specification B 650.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

  • Guide
    6 pages
    English language

Frequently Asked Questions

B08.03 is a Technical Committee within ASTM International. It is named "Engineering Coatings". This committee has published 74 standards.

B08.03 develops ASTM standards in the area of Information technology. Currently, there are 74 published standards from this technical committee.

ASTM is a standardization organization that develops and publishes standards to support industry, commerce, and regulatory requirements.

A Technical Committee (TC) in ASTM is a group of experts responsible for developing international standards in a specific technical area. TCs are composed of national member body delegates and work through consensus to create standards that meet global industry needs. Each TC may have subcommittees (SCs) and working groups (WGs) for specialized topics.

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