Optimizing the efficiently used nickel ratio in nickel plating process by using response surface methodology

Abstract

Efficient usage of nickel, one of the important cost parameters of nickel chrome plating processes, is compulsory for competing. In this study, it is aimed to optimize the process parameters of the nickel baths of a manufacturer that plates nickel-chromium on metal. For this purpose, response surface methodology (RSM), one of the experimental design and optimization techniques, has been used. In nickel baths; while the rate of nickel sticking to the surface of the workpiece is maximized; temperature, nickel sulfate (NiSO4) ratio, nickel chloride (NiCl2) ratio, boric acid (H3BO3) ratio, pH and polisher ratio were selected as factors affecting the process. At the end of the study, the efficiently used nickel ratio in the bathrooms was increased from 80% to 95%.