JP2011246815A - Electrolytic treatment apparatus, electrolytic treatment method and fixture for use in the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a new electrolytic treatment apparatus, electrolytic treatment method and fixture for use in the same.SOLUTION: A method and apparatus for electrolytically treating a surface of a component includes a reaction chamber, a transport chamber and a fluid return path. The reaction chamber is adapted for placing at least a portion of the component therein, and holds a reaction fluid. Fluid enters the reaction chamber through a plurality of inlets. Each inlet directs the fluid toward the component at one or more non-zero vertical angles, and at one or more non-zero horizontal angles. The reaction chamber is a fixture having a cover with an underside shaped to direct the fluid to the surface of the component, such as by having a plurality of slopes. The inlets are through a material that is electrically non-conductive, such as ceramic, plastic, PVC, and fiber reinforced plastic, and/or the fixture further includes a titanium cathode ring that can be vertically adjacent the non-conductive material.

Description

  The present invention generally relates to a technique for electrolytically forming a coating on a metal part. More specifically, in the present invention, the dissolved metal ions in the reaction medium (electrolyte) are cathodically deposited on a metal substrate (cathode), or the metal substrate (anode) is adhered to an adhesive ceramic coating (oxide film). The present invention relates to the electrolytic formation of a coating on a metal substrate by anodizing the film.

  It is well known that many metal components or parts require a final surface treatment. Such surface treatment may improve one or more properties of the part, such as thermal resistance, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, hardness, conductivity or lubricity, or simply by increasing its apparent value. , Improve the functionality of the parts and extend the life of the parts.

  An example of a part that is typically surface treated is an aluminum piston head used in combustion engines. ("Aluminum component" as described herein is a component that contains at least a portion of aluminum, including aluminum alloys). Such a piston head is in contact with the combustion zone and is therefore Exposure to relatively hot gases. Aluminum materials become subject to high internal stresses, which can result in deformation or change in the metal structure and negatively impact the functionality and life of the part. It is well known that the risk of an aluminum piston not functioning satisfactorily by an anodized coating formation process (anodization). Therefore, many aluminum piston heads are anodized.

  There are drawbacks to anodizing the piston head. Conventional anodizing with a direct current or voltage increases the surface roughness of the initial aluminum material surface by applying an anode coating. The amount of VOC (volatile organic compounds) in the combustion engine exhaust correlates with the surface finish of the anodized aluminum piston. That is, when the surface roughness is larger, a larger proportion of the organic compound can be easily captured by the fine cavities, so that the combustion efficiency is lowered. Thus, although a smooth surface is required, that cannot always be provided by anodization.

  Conventional anodization involves exposing the aluminum material to an acid electrolyte typically composed of sulfuric acid or to an electrolyte mixed with sulfuric acid and oxalic acid. Higher concentrations and temperatures usually result in a significant decrease in formation rate. In addition, the forming voltage decreases as the temperature increases, which adversely affects the denseness and technical properties of the oxide film.

  By performing the anodization process at a (relatively) low temperature and a fairly high current density, the technical quality of denseness and coating performance (high hardness and high rub resistance) is increased. Anodizing generates a significant amount of heat. Heat is generated as a result of the exothermic properties of the anodization of the aluminum material and the resistance action of the aluminum material to the anodization.

  The electrolyte is acidic and therefore chemically dissolves the aluminum oxide. Therefore, the net forming action of the coating (aluminum oxide) depends on the balance between the electrolytic conversion action in which aluminum becomes aluminum oxide and the chemical dissolution action of the produced aluminum oxide. Determined. The rate of chemical dissolution increases with heat. Thus, the overall heat generation affects this balance and the final quality of the anode coating. Heat should be dissipated from the source region to the bulk solution at a rate that prevents excessive heat generation of the electrolyte in the vicinity of the aluminum part. If the balance between the forming action and the dissolving action is not properly balanced and the dissolving action is advantageous, pores exposing the alloy portion to the electrolyte may grow in the oxide layer.

  In the prior art, the heat generated on the surface of the aluminum material is dispersed by air stirring action or by mechanically stirring the electrolyte in which the oxidation action of the aluminum material occurs, and helps to reach the desired balance. . Another method for dispersing heat is performed by spraying an electrolyte toward the surface of the aluminum material (Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). The electrolyte is sprayed on the surface of the aluminum material at an angle of 90 degrees to move the heat toward the generation area and then disperse it symmetrically away from the surface of the aluminum material. Another method for dispersing the heat is to pump the electrolyte above the aluminum substrate (Patent Document 3). The electrolyte moves parallel to the aluminum material surface, transferring heat from the lower part of the aluminum substrate to the entire surface before the electrolyte is finally dispersed away from the aluminum material surface.

Patent Document 4 is a significant advance over the prior art, and the reaction medium passes through a hole in the counter electrode (cathode) and is directed toward the metal substrate (component) at 15 degrees and 90 degrees in the horizontal direction. And preferably spraying at an angle between 60 and 70 degrees. Note that the content of this document is referred to and replaced with the description in this specification. The “angle in the horizontal direction” described in this specification includes an angle with respect to the shortest horizontal distance to the component in the horizontal plane, and an angle of zero degrees in the horizontal direction is a horizontal distance that is the shortest distance to the component. Along a straight line in the direction.
This system provides a flow of reaction medium from most of the solution below the vessel through the reaction chamber and back to the reservoir. As the reaction medium moves towards the working electrode at an angle in the horizontal direction, heat and reaction products are dissipated away from the working electrode. The electrolyte is stored and cooled to a suitable processing temperature ranging from -10 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. This system was a substantial improvement over the prior art. However, the dissolved metal in this process can plate into the holes in the counter electrode (cathode), which can cause clogging if no cleaning treatment is performed.
There is a demand for an anodizing method and an anodizing apparatus for obtaining a film having a desired quality and firmness with a minimum operation while further shortening the processing time and having a high forming action possibility. Preferably, the anodizing method and anodizing device will be configured with a closed loop process design that reduces the effect of electrolytes on the internal and external environments and will reduce manufacturing costs. Preferably, the anodization method will further remove heat from the vicinity of the anodized component and prevent clogging of the nozzle through which the reaction fluid passes.

US Pat. No. 5,534,126 US Pat. No. 5,032,244 US Pat. No. 5,173,161 US Pat. No. 6,126,808

  An object of the present invention is to provide a novel electrolytic treatment apparatus, an electrolytic treatment method, and a fixture used for them.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, an electrolytic processing apparatus for electrolytically processing the surface of a component includes a reaction chamber, a transfer chamber, and a fluid return path. The reaction chamber is adapted to place at least a part of the components in the reaction chamber and hold the reaction fluid. The transfer chamber is in fluid communication with the reaction chamber. From the transfer chamber, the fluid enters the reaction chamber through a plurality of inlets directed to the components. Each entry is arranged to direct the fluid to the component at at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction. This fluid returns from the reaction chamber to the transfer chamber through the fluid return path.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, a fixture for anodizing components comprises a reaction chamber in which a plurality of inlets are formed. Each entry points the electrolyte at at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction to the component.

  In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, an electrolytic treatment method for electrolytically treating a component includes directing a reaction fluid along the plurality of paths to the component. Each path forms one of at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction.

  In various alternative embodiments, the at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction, and the angles are greater than or less than zero degrees, or Both.

  In other alternative aspects, the plurality of entrances are at least two in the horizontal direction that are at least one angle that is not zero in the horizontal direction, or that are greater than or less than zero degrees, or both. At an angle, the fluid is directed at the component.

  In other embodiments, the reaction chamber is a fixture having a cover with a bottom surface, eg, having a plurality of ramps, shaped to direct fluid toward the surface of the component.

  In other alternative embodiments, the plurality of inlets and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to cause fluid to refresh at the surface of the component or heat from the surface of the component by the fluid. Try to get rid of them, or do both.

  In various alternative embodiments, the entrance may pass through a non-conductive material, such as ceramic, plastic, PVC and fiber reinforced plastic, or a fixture may be vertically adjacent to the non-conductive material. It further comprises a titanium cathode ring or both.

More specifically, according to the first aspect of the invention, there is provided an electrolytic treatment apparatus for electrolytically treating the surface of a component,
A reaction chamber, wherein the reaction chamber is arranged to hold at least a part of the components in the reaction chamber and hold a reaction fluid;
further,
A transfer chamber in fluid communication with the reaction chamber, wherein fluid enters the reaction chamber from the transfer chamber through a plurality of inlets directed to the component, each of the plurality of inlets being , Arranged to direct the fluid toward the component at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction;
further,
An electrolytic treatment apparatus is provided that includes a fluid return path for returning the fluid from the reaction chamber to the transfer chamber.

According to a second aspect, in the first aspect, at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction.
According to a third invention, in the second invention, at least a first angle of at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction is greater than zero degrees and at least two that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction. At least a second of the angles is set to be smaller than zero degrees.
According to a fourth aspect, in the first aspect, each of the plurality of inlets is further arranged to direct the fluid to the component at an angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction. .
According to a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.
According to a sixth aspect, in the first aspect, each of the plurality of inlets is further arranged to direct the fluid to the component at an angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction. .
According to a seventh aspect, in the first aspect, the reaction chamber is a fixture having a cover that covers the reaction chamber, and the cover enters the reaction chamber through the plurality of entrances. A bottom surface shaped to direct fluid toward the surface of the component;
According to an eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the bottom surface of the cover has a plurality of inclined portions.
According to a ninth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the plurality of entrances and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to allow the fluid to exchange at the surface.
According to a tenth aspect, in the second aspect, the plurality of inlets and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to cause the fluid to remove heat from the surface of the component.
According to an eleventh aspect, in the seventh aspect, the plurality of entrances penetrate the first non-conductive substance.
According to a twelfth aspect, in the eleventh aspect, the first nonconductive material is composed of at least one of ceramic, plastic, PVC, and fiber reinforced plastic.
According to a thirteenth aspect, in the eleventh aspect, the plurality of entrances are in a fixture, and the fixture further includes a titanium cathode ring portion.
According to a fourteenth aspect, in the thirteenth aspect, the titanium cathode ring portion is adjacent to the first non-conductive substance in the vertical direction.
According to a fifteenth aspect, in the first aspect, the plurality of entrances penetrate the first non-conductive substance, the reaction chamber is a fixture, and the plurality of entrances are the fixed parts. The fixture is further provided with a titanium cathode ring portion.
According to a sixteenth aspect, in the fifteenth aspect, the titanium cathode ring portion is adjacent to the first non-conductive substance in the vertical direction.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fixture for anodizing a component, comprising a reaction chamber formed with a plurality of inlets, each of which has an electrolyte in the vertical direction of zero degrees. A fixture is provided that is positioned to face the component at an angle that is not.
According to an eighteenth aspect, in the seventeenth aspect, at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction.
According to a nineteenth aspect, in the eighteenth aspect, at least a first angle of at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction is greater than zero degrees, and at least two that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction. At least a second of the angles is set to be smaller than zero degrees.
According to a twentieth aspect, in the nineteenth aspect, each of the plurality of inlets is further arranged to direct the fluid to the component at an angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction. .
According to a twenty-first aspect, in the twentieth aspect, at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.
According to a twenty-second aspect, in the twentieth aspect, the fixture has a cover that covers the reaction chamber, and the cover is disposed so that the electrolyte faces the reaction surface of the component. Has a bottom surface.
According to the twenty-third aspect, in the twenty-second aspect, the plurality of inlets and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to exchange the electrolyte on the reaction surface.
According to a twenty-fourth aspect, in the twenty-third aspect, the plurality of inlets and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to cause the electrolyte to remove heat from the reaction surface.
According to a 25th aspect, in the 24th aspect, the bottom surface of the cover has a plurality of inclined portions.
According to a twenty-sixth aspect, in the twenty-second aspect, the plurality of entrances penetrate the first non-conductive substance.
According to a twenty-seventh aspect, in the twenty-sixth aspect, the first nonconductive material is composed of at least one of ceramic, plastic, PVC, and fiber reinforced plastic, and the fixture is made of titanium. A cathode ring portion is further provided.
According to the 28th invention, in the 25th invention, the titanium cathode ring portion is adjacent to the first non-conductive substance in the vertical direction.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the invention, there is provided an electrolytic treatment method for electrolytically treating a component, including directing a reaction fluid along the plurality of paths toward the component, wherein each of the plurality of paths is in a vertical direction. An electrolytic process is provided that forms one of at least one non-zero angle.
According to the thirtieth aspect, in the thirtyth aspect, when the reaction fluid is directed along the plurality of paths and directed to the component at one of at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction, Directing the reaction fluid along a plurality of paths to the component, each of the plurality of paths forming one of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction.
According to a thirty-first aspect, in the thirtieth aspect, at least a first angle of at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction is greater than zero degrees and at least two that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction At least a second of the angles is set to be smaller than zero degrees.
According to a thirty-second aspect, in the thirtieth aspect, each of the plurality of paths forms at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.
According to a thirty-third aspect, in the thirty-second aspect, at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.
According to a thirty-fourth aspect of the invention, in the thirty-third aspect, the method further includes allowing the reaction fluid to be exchanged on the surface.
According to a thirty-fifth aspect, in the thirty-fourth aspect, further includes removing heat from the surface of the component.
According to the thirty-sixth aspect, in the thirty-second aspect, when the reaction fluid is directed to the component along a plurality of paths, the reaction fluid is directed through the first non-conductive substance.
According to a thirty-seventh aspect, in the thirty-second aspect, when the reaction fluid is directed toward the component along a plurality of paths, the reaction fluid is adjacent to the cathode ring portion in the vertical direction. Direct through one non-conductive material.
According to the thirty-eighth aspect, in the thirty-second aspect, when the reaction fluid is directed toward the component along a plurality of paths, the reaction fluid is adjacent to the titanium cathode ring portion in the vertical direction. Directed through the first non-conductive material.

  Other major features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art with reference to the following drawings, detailed description and appended claims.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a general method for implementing the present invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the processing container which implements this invention. 1 is a cross-sectional view at an angle showing a counter electrode according to a preferred embodiment. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the counter electrode which concerns on suitable embodiment. FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a working electrode attached to a mounting fixture in accordance with a preferred embodiment.

  Before describing at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, the present invention will be described in detail in the following detailed description of the application of the present invention or in the details of the structure and arrangement of components shown in the drawings. It should be understood that it is not limited. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. It should also be understood that the wording and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of describing the present invention and should not be construed as limiting. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate similar components.

  Although the present invention will be described with reference to a specific anodizing system and anodizing method for anodizing aluminum components with a particular fixture, the present invention can be practiced with other anodizing systems and anodizing methods. At the same time, it should be understood that it can be used to anodize other parts, including other materials held in other fixtures.

  The “anodic treatment method” and “anodic treatment apparatus” described in the present specification are generally in accordance with the prior art of Patent Document 4, but have the following changes. A general anodizing method and anodizing system are shown in the block diagram of FIG. The anodizing action occurs in the processing vessel 100 (described later in more detail). The working electrode 102 (that is, the part to be anodized) is disposed in a reaction vessel 104 that is a part of the processing vessel 100. After anodizing, the component or part 102 is moved to the purification tank 110 where the working electrode 102 passes from the purified water storage tank 112 through a set of spray nozzles 118 into the purification chamber 116. The water is pumped up by the pump 114 and purified. The purified water leaves the purification chamber 116 through the purified water outlet 119 and returns to the purified water storage tank 112. The working electrode or component 102 is mechanically held in place during the cleaning process. After performing the purification process, the working electrode 102 is transferred to the drying container 120, where the working electrode 102 passes from a heater 122 that is pumped into the drying container 120 through several dry air inlets 124. Dry with hot air. A “component” as described herein includes a device or object to be treated or anodized.

  Alternative embodiments provide multiple departments (eg, anodizing and cleaning processes) in a single vessel, or provide a department (eg, following the drying vessel 120) to inspect components as a quality control measure. Including that. This inspection process may be automatically performed using a known technique, for example, neural network analysis.

  Referring now to FIG. 2, a schematic cross section of the processing vessel 100 and related components, including the outer circular transfer chamber 201 and the inner reaction vessel 104 is shown. The reaction medium (electrolyte solution) is pressured from the reaction medium storage tank 202 disposed below the processing vessel 100 and in fluid communication with the processing vessel 100 through several inlet channels 205 to the transfer chamber 201. It is transferred by the pump 203. Alternative embodiments include chambers with other shapes and include entrances and exits at different locations. “Fluid communication” as described herein includes a path or connection through which fluid can flow from one location or container to another location or container. A “reaction chamber” as described herein includes a container in which components to be treated or anodized are placed. The “transfer chamber” described herein includes containers and pipes that store electrolytes or fluids and move them to the reaction chamber.

  The transfer channel 201 and the reaction vessel 104 are separated by an inner wall, which has a lower part 206 made of an inert substance, partly counter-electrode and partly non-conductive (unlike the prior art). And an upper part 207 in which a pair of reaction medium inlets or nozzles 210 are formed. Alternatively, the entire wall may be an electrode. The reaction medium enters the reaction vessel 104 through a reaction medium inlet or nozzle 210 that penetrates the portion 207. The reaction medium forms a non-zero angle in the horizontal direction and (in contrast to the prior art) forms a non-zero angle in the vertical direction with respect to the surface of the component, part, aluminum substrate or working electrode 102. Enter the reaction vessel 104. The horizontal angle with respect to the component is in the range of 15 to 90 degrees (or -15 to -90 degrees), preferably 60 to 70 degrees (or -60 to -70 degrees). is there. The angle in the vertical direction with respect to the component is in the range of 15 to 85 degrees, preferably 20 to 40 degrees. The “angle in the vertical direction” described in this specification includes an angle with respect to the horizontal direction, the upward angle in the vertical direction is larger than zero degrees, and the downward angle in the vertical direction is smaller than zero degrees.

  The reaction medium leaves the reaction vessel 104 through the reaction medium outlet 212 and returns to the reaction medium storage tank 202. Inner and outer walls 213 (consisting of portions 206 and 207) are fixed to the bottom wall 214. The walls 206, 213, and 214 are made of an inert material such as polypropylene. The reaction vessel 104 is closed by a movable top lid, and the movable top lid is made of an inert material such as polypropylene and includes a cover lid 219 and a mounting fixture 220. An electrode 102 is disposed within the movable top lid. The mounting fixture 220 is replaceable and is specially formed for the particular part or working electrode 102 to be anodized. The “fixing device” described in this specification includes a reaction chamber and walls, an entrance, a cover, a cathode, a connection portion, and the like. The “cover (of the reaction chamber or fixture)” described herein includes a surface portion covering the reaction chamber consisting of a chamber, which may be partially open or extend through the cover. There may be components present, or both.

  The upper portion of the working electrode 102 is exposed to air to improve the dispersion of heat that accumulates on the working electrode 102 during processing. The film forming selective action on the working electrode 102 can be obtained by using, for example, a top mask or the like in the embodiment according to the prior art, particularly in FIGS. 3 and 4 of Patent Document 4. The mounting and masking device allows a coating to be selectively formed at high speed on a metallic substrate as described in US Pat.

  The reaction medium is sprayed towards the metal substrate through the holes in the counter electrode in such a way that the reaction product (heat) is removed from the metal substrate (working electrode). FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the injection ring portion 301 at an angle with respect to the horizontal direction. The plurality of entrances 1001 are shown at an angle between 60 degrees and 70 degrees in the horizontal direction. These entrances 1001 form an angle other than zero in the vertical direction, as will be described in more detail later.

  The reaction medium may be a solution of at least one of sulfuric acid and a suitable organic acid as described in US Pat. The electrolyte is preferably stored and cooled to an appropriate processing temperature and pumped into the reaction chamber at an appropriate flow rate. The direction in which the electrolyte flows is toward the aluminum material surface, so that heat is transferred away from the heat generation area. The electrolyte is transferred to a reaction site in the outer circular entry chamber through a counter electrode facing a component, for example an aluminum piston. The counter electrode is formed with 1 to 50, preferably 10 to 30, transfer entrances leading to the reaction chamber. The counter electrode is connected to a rectifier and acts as a cathode (negative electrode). It is preferable to use a pulse current pattern such as that described in US Pat.

  Referring again to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view of the injection ring 301 of the inner wall portion 207 is shown. An inlet 1001 is formed in the injection ring portion 301, and its cross section has an angle equal to the angle of the inlet 1001 in the vertical direction. If the cross section is angled in the horizontal direction, the entrance will appear as an oval. These inlets 1001 are at an angle between 60 and 70 degrees in the horizontal direction and thus direct the fluid to the component at a non-zero angle in the horizontal direction. “Aimed at a component” as described herein includes directing or tilting toward the component such that the shortest distance to the component is reduced.

  In the preferred embodiment, the entrance 1001 penetrates through a non-conductive material. Examples of such non-conductive materials include ceramic, plastic, PVC, fiber reinforced plastic and the like. The preferred embodiment provides that the entire injection ring 301 is non-conductive. Other embodiments provide that the portion between the entrance 1001 exhibits conductivity. “Non-conductive” as described herein includes materials that can be electrically isolated at the voltages used for processing.

  A perspective view of a portion 207 comprising an injection ring portion 301 and a cathode (or counter electrode) 401 is shown in FIG. The cathode 401 is preferably composed of titanium (unlike the prior art), and is adjacent to the injection ring portion 301 in the vertical direction and directly below the injection ring portion 301. In other embodiments, the cathode 401 is located directly above the injection ring portion 301 (still adjacent to the injection ring portion 301 in the vertical direction) or adjacently between the entrances 1001. Is provided. The phrase “adjacent in the vertical direction” described in the present specification includes a proximity state, a contact state, or a state in the vicinity in the vertical direction.

  Since these entrances do not pass through the cathode, it is less likely that the entrances will become clogged due to sticking of molten metal entering the anodizing solution when processing the alloyed material. Rather, by employing the present invention, undesirable sticking action is mainly restricted to areas that are not important, for example, the surface of the ring portion 401 or the ring portion 301.

  The entrance is at a non-zero angle in the vertical direction and thus directs the fluid to the component at a non-zero angle in the vertical direction. FIG. 5 shows a vertical cross-sectional view of component 102 in fixture 220 according to a preferred embodiment. Entrance 1001 is shown at an angle in the vertical direction, preferably between 20 and 40 degrees. The entrance 1001 appears in an oval shape because the cross section forms an angle of zero degrees in the horizontal direction, and the entrance 1001 forms an angle other than zero degrees in the horizontal direction. An alternative embodiment provides at least one of a negative angle in the vertical direction, two or more angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction, and two or more angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction with respect to the entrance 1001. To grant. For example, for each entrance located alternately, an angle of 30 degrees and −30 degrees can be formed in the vertical direction.

  The component 102 is a piston and is supported at a predetermined position by a spacer 501 in the fixture 220. The reaction fluid enters through the entrance 1001 as indicated by arrow 503. The entrance 1001 passes through the non-conductive ring portion 301. The non-conductive ring portion 301 is disposed adjacent to the cathode 401 in the vertical direction. The cover 505 is disposed above the fixture 220 and fluid passes between the cover 505 and the fixture 220. Unlike the prior art, the bottom surface of the cover 505 is shaped to direct fluid toward the piston 102 by providing an upwardly inclined portion. More specifically, the bottom surface of the cover 505 includes a first inclined region 507 and a second inclined region 508. These inclined regions 507 and 508 are combined to form an average inclined portion that is not zero degrees. In alternative embodiments, a single ramp is provided, or a plurality of ramps are provided with an abrupt transition that joins the ramps, or a ramp with a continuously varying ramp is provided. As used herein, the “bottom of the cover” is the surface of the cover that is most proximal to the reaction fluid.

  Fluid is directed to the piston 102 by the bottom surface of the cover 505 as indicated by arrow 510 and by the inlet 1001. The fluid returns to the containment chamber along the path indicated by arrows 511 and 512. The shape of the bottom surface of the cover 505 and the entrance direction 503 assist in forming a laminar flow at the locations indicated by the arrows 510 and 511.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, the fixing tool is provided with an entrance or nozzle that forms a non-zero angle in the vertical and horizontal directions and penetrates the non-conductive material. The non-zero angle, in cooperation with the inclined bottom surface of the cover, allows electrolyte to flow into the annular groove in the piston and allows the electrolyte solution to switch at the anodized region interface. This circulation of the electrolyte flow, indicated by arrows 510 and 511, allows the electrolyte to effectively remove heat and allows the fluid (electrolyte) to be replaced at the surface of the aluminum material to provide a dense oxide. Form a structure. Furthermore, this co-operation helps even the electrolyte is replenished at the anodization interface and reduces any potential hot spots between the electrolyte injection nozzles. As described herein, “replacement of fluid at the surface” includes directing new fluid to the reaction surface. Various alternative embodiments have a non-zero angle in the vertical direction with a zero degree angle in the horizontal direction, with or without an inclined bottom surface of the cover and with or without a non-conductive entrance ring. Other alternatives are non-conductive regardless of the presence or absence of non-zero angles in the vertical direction, the presence or absence of non-zero angles in the horizontal direction, and the presence or absence of an inclined bottom surface of the cover (ie, a non-zero average slope). Has a sex entrance ring. An additional alternative embodiment is the bottom surface of the cover that directs fluid to the component with or without a non-conductive entrance annulus, with or without a non-zero angle in the vertical direction, or with a non-zero angle in the horizontal direction. (For example, having an inclined bottom surface).

  Numerous modifications can be made to the present invention that fall within the intended scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent that an electroplating system and an anodizing method for an electroplating method and an anodizing apparatus for electroplating that fully satisfy the objects and advantages set forth above are provided in accordance with the present invention. While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to enjoy all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Processing container 102 Working electrode 104 Reaction container 201 Transfer chamber 220 Fixing tool 301 Injection ring part 401 Cathode ring part 505 Cover 507 Inclined area 508 Inclined area 1001 Entrance

Claims (38)

An electrolytic processing apparatus for electrolytically processing the surface of a component,
A reaction chamber, wherein the reaction chamber is arranged to hold at least a part of the components in the reaction chamber and hold a reaction fluid;
further,
A transfer chamber in fluid communication with the reaction chamber, wherein fluid enters the reaction chamber from the transfer chamber through a plurality of inlets directed to the component, each of the plurality of inlets being , Arranged to direct the fluid toward the component at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction;
further,
An electrolytic treatment apparatus comprising a fluid return path for returning the fluid from the reaction chamber to the transfer chamber.   The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction.   At least a first angle of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction is greater than zero degrees and at least a second angle of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction is less than zero degrees The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 2, wherein   The electrolytic processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of inlets is further arranged to direct the fluid toward the component at at least one non-zero angle in the horizontal direction.   The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.   The electrolytic processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of inlets is further arranged to direct the fluid toward the component at at least one non-zero angle in the horizontal direction.   The reaction chamber is a fixture having a cover that covers the reaction chamber, and the cover is shaped to direct the fluid entering the reaction chamber through the plurality of inlets toward the surface of the component. The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 1, having a bottom surface.   The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 7, wherein a bottom surface of the cover has a plurality of inclined portions.   The electrolytic processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of entrances and a bottom surface of the cover cooperate to allow the fluid to be exchanged on the surface.   The electrolytic processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of entrances and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to cause the fluid to remove heat from the surface of the component.   The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of entrances penetrate the first non-conductive substance.   The electrolytic processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first nonconductive material is made of at least one of ceramic, plastic, PVC, and fiber reinforced plastic.   The electrolytic processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of entrances are in a fixture, and the fixture further includes a titanium cathode ring portion.   The electrolytic processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the titanium cathode ring portion is adjacent to the first non-conductive substance in a vertical direction.   The plurality of entrances penetrate the first non-conductive substance, the reaction chamber is a fixture, the plurality of entrances penetrate the fixture, and the fixture is a titanium cathode. The electrolytic treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a ring portion.   The electrolytic processing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the titanium cathode ring portion is adjacent to the first non-conductive substance in a vertical direction.   A fixture for anodizing components comprising a reaction chamber formed with a plurality of inlets, each of the plurality of inlets forming at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction of the electrolyte And a fixture arranged to face the component.   18. The fixture of claim 17, wherein the at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction.   At least a first angle of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction is greater than zero degrees and at least a second angle of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction is less than zero degrees The fixture according to claim 18, wherein   20. The fixture of claim 19, wherein each of the plurality of inlets is further arranged to direct the fluid to the component at at least one non-zero angle in the horizontal direction.   21. The fixture of claim 20, wherein the at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.   21. The fixture of claim 20, wherein the fixture has a cover that covers the reaction chamber, and the cover has a bottom surface disposed to direct the electrolyte toward the reaction surface of the component.   23. The fixture of claim 22, wherein the plurality of inlets and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to allow the electrolyte to exchange at the reaction surface.   24. The fixture of claim 23, wherein the plurality of inlets and the bottom surface of the cover cooperate to allow the electrolyte to remove heat from the reaction surface.   The fixture according to claim 24, wherein a bottom surface of the cover has a plurality of inclined portions.   24. The fixture of claim 22, wherein the plurality of entrances penetrate the first non-conductive material.   27. The first non-conductive material of claim 26, wherein the first non-conductive material is composed of at least one of ceramic, plastic, PVC, and fiber reinforced plastic, and the fixture further comprises a titanium cathode ring. Fixture.   26. The fixture of claim 25, wherein the titanium cathode ring portion is vertically adjacent to the first non-conductive material.   An electrolytic treatment method for electrolytically treating a component, comprising directing a reaction fluid along the plurality of paths toward the component, each of the plurality of paths having at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the vertical direction. An electrolytic treatment method that constitutes one of them.   When the reaction fluid is directed along the plurality of paths and directed to the component at one of at least one non-zero angle in the vertical direction, the reaction fluid is directed along the plurality of paths to the component. 32. The electrolytic treatment method of claim 30, wherein each of the plurality of paths includes one of at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the vertical direction.   At least a first angle of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction is greater than zero degrees and at least a second angle of at least two non-zero angles in the vertical direction is less than zero degrees The electrolytic treatment method according to claim 30, wherein the electrolytic treatment method is performed.   The electrolytic treatment method according to claim 30, wherein each of the plurality of paths forms at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.   The electrolytic treatment method according to claim 32, wherein the at least one angle that is not zero degrees in the horizontal direction is at least two angles that are not zero degrees in the horizontal direction.   34. The electrolytic treatment method according to claim 33, further comprising allowing the reaction fluid to exchange at a surface.   35. The electrolytic treatment method of claim 34, further comprising removing heat from a surface of the component.   33. The electrolytic treatment method according to claim 32, wherein when the reaction fluid is directed to the component along a plurality of paths, the reaction fluid is directed through the first non-conductive substance.   33. When directing the reaction fluid along the plurality of paths toward the component, the reaction fluid is directed through a first non-conductive material vertically adjacent to the cathode ring portion. The electrolytic treatment method described in 1.   Directing the reaction fluid through a first nonconductive material vertically adjacent to a titanium cathode ring when directing the reaction fluid along a plurality of paths to the component. Item 33. The electrolytic treatment method according to Item 32.

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