GB760016A - Improvements in or relating to electroplating - Google Patents

Abstract

760,016. Electrodeposition of metals. GLACIER METAL CO., Ltd. Sept. 10, 1954 [Sept. 11, 1953], No. 25176/53. Class 41. Apparatus for electrodepositing metals on conducting surfaces comprises a pad 5, Fig. 1, of non-conducting material, interposed between an anode and the surface as cathode, means for maintaining the pad constantly wet with electrolyte, and means for moving the pad relatively to, and in rubbing contact with, both the anode and cathode. When the surface to be plated is a continuous strip 4, Fig. 1, it may be passed over the pad 5, against the underside of which is pressed the anode 7 by spring-loaded plungers 6, the pad being given a slight circular motion in its plane by means of rotating cams engaging links connected to a frame about which cloth is wrapped. A pump P delivers electrolyte to the pad 5, from where it falls into a tank 3. Alternatively, an endless belt may carry the pad through a bath of electrolyte and pass between the anode and cathode, of which the latter at least moves at right angles to the belt. In another embodiment the belt and cathode move in parallel, opposite directions, the belt moving between the strip cathode and stationary or moving anodes, electrolyte being picked up by the belt in passing through a bath, and/or being delivered thereto through spaces between the anodes. For plating an article 16, Fig. 6, the pad 5 may comprise cloth 11 mounted on two perforated discs 14a, 14b rotatable about a hollow shaft 15 through which electrolyte is delivered to the pad. Alternatively, a single perforated disc, covered with cloth, and dipping in a tank of electrolyte, may be used. For plating shaped articles, e.g. a half-liner 19, Fig. 7, an endless belt 20 of sponge rubber is passed by a driven drum 21 in a tank 3 of electrolyte between the anode 7 and cathode 19.