GB197066A - Improvements relating to the electro-deposition of metals - Google Patents

Abstract

197,066. Hutchins, T. W. S. Feb. 15, 1922. Metals, depositing; electrolytes, circulating and regenerating; electrodes; diaphragms. - In the electrodeposition of metals such as iron, nickel and cobalt, means are provided to ensure that the electrolyte around the cathode is completely freed from all sclid partticles such as graphite which would form a couple with the metal being deposited. In the apparatus shown, for the deposition of iron, spent electrolyte in pumped to regenerators k, l, m of considerable length and relatively small cross-section packed with scrap or other iron. The regenerators are provided with baffleplates o and sludge-cocks q and are sealed against the entry of air by covers p. The regenerator m is steam-jacketed. The regenerated electrolyte passes through a filter n to the anode chamber of the cell a. More than one filter may be used. one of which may extract the heavier matter, the final one being of felt or earthenware alone or in conjunction with a centrifugal separator. The anode b is trough-shaped and is lined inside with a filter-cloth e. The anode may be of an insoluble metal, metal of the kind to be deposited being packed between the anode and the filter. The cathode c is cylindrical and is rotated by a pulley d. The cell a is provided with a mid-feather f forming a compartment g into which electrolyte flows by an overflow aperture not shown and along the cathode shaft, and from which it flows to the pump i. The iron in the regenerators may be replaced by a basic compound or compounds. The exclusion of air ensures the electrolyte remaining neutral without addition of alkali. The preferred electrolyte consists of 150 gms. of ferrous sulphate and 100 gms. sodium sulphate per litre of water.