GalvanoTest

Description

The coulometric or anodic de-plating technique is used for measuring the thickness of electroplated coatings on virtually all substrates such as steel, non-ferrous metals or insulating material bases. Typical applications include: nickel on steel, zinc on steel, tin on copper, silver on copper or copper on epoxy.

This technique simply involves the removal of a small, almost invisible area of coating material. The substrate is not affected. The coulometric method ensures reliable and exact results. Designed for complete ease of use, GalvanoTest requires no specific operator skills and only minimal training before actual measurements can take place. The coulometric principle is the only low-cost method to measure the inpidual layers of multi-layer systems, for instance chrome plus nickel plus copper on steel one after the other.

Connected to the MiniPrint data printer, GalvanoTest provides complete documentation of measuring results and statistics. For specific measuring analysis or later reference, the characteristic voltage curve during the de-plating process can also be printed out.

Measuring principle

Based on the principle of Faraday’s law, GalvanoTest performs the electrolytic dissolution of a precisely delimited area of the sample. A measuring cell is filled with an electrolyte specially adapted to the selected coating/base combination. The measuring cell is placed on the test sample. A gasket inserted between the cell and the test sample prevents the solution from running out and at the same time precisely determines the area to be de-plated, e. g. 1 mm2. The equipment is now ready to use and can be plugged into the electronic gauge. The current, through the electrolyte, dissolves the predetermined area of coating using an electro-chemical reaction. Once the etching is complete, a characteristic change in voltage automatically stops the deplating process and coating thickness is displayed in microns or mils on the digital display.

Design

The GalvanoTest gauge consists of three major components:

Measuring cell

For measuring on even or curved surfaces up to 3 mm curvature radius, two different measuring cells are available. A cell with air pulsator is connected to the 2000 model. The electrolyte is constantly moved around the measuring cell to ensure an even de-plating of the measuring area as well as on optimum use of the electrolyte.

For measuring wires or small parts, an electrolyte cup is available to dip the samples into the electrolyte. The electrolyte cup can be used for both models.

Stand

The stand serves to hold the test sample in place. It permits the exact positioning of the measuring cell on the test sample. The electrolyte distributor pump is attached either to the stand or to the gauge.

Processing unit

GalvanoTest is a microprocessor based instrument with interactive LCD. It is suitable for measuring a variety of plating applications. The measuring application can be entered via touchpad and visualized on a large alpha-numeric display. Various data ports are available to connect GalvanoTest to peripheral units such as a PC, printer or Y-T recorder.

Choosing GalvanoTest 2000 or 3000?

Two GalvanoTest models are available: The GalvanoTest 2000 is the basic model and measures a variety of coating/base combinations without any accessories being required. Designed for easy use, this model is mostly recommended for measuring multi-layer applications.

With the GalvanoTest 3000 additional measuring conveniences are provided. Its measuring stand with integrated electrolyte pump and easy to change measuring cell for automatic electrolyte removal and refilling enable electrolyte savings as one filling may be used for a large series of de-plating processes. Additional measuring cells may be purchased to house different electrolyte solutions for quick change over for multi-layer applications. Further advantages of the 3000 model: Even spots as small as 0,25 mm 2 can be measured easily without problems.

Scope of delivery

• GalvanoTest gauge
• Interface for connecting MiniPrint data printer or a PC
• Data port for Y-T recorder
• Standard measuring stand with measuring cell and pulsator nozzle
• Connecting cable gauge/measuring stand
• A-gasket (8 mm2)
• B-gasket (4 mm2)
• 3 bottles electrolyte, 100 ml each, according to customer selection
• Pipettes
• Bottle for electrolyte waste
• Spray bottle
• Rubber pencil
• Absorbent paper package
• Operating Manual