Taguchi Design of Internal Stress and Friction Measurements during Electrodeposition

Abstract

The electroplating method is a promising alternative to produce composite plating by using dispersed fine particles in the metal plating bath. The process can be either called electro-deposition or composite deposition. The particles are trapped in the deposit during the process. Internal stress is a common problem in plated deposits that affect the performance of the coatings and may even result in adhesion problems. Hence, the amount and type (compressive or tensile) of the internal stress must be controlled. MoS2 particle – nickel coatings can be referred as self-lubricating coatings that satisfy the demand for decreased friction in severe applications. The internal stress during MoS2 particle – nickel electro-deposition was measured by deposit stress analyzer. The effects of electroplating parameters that are MoS2 particle concentration, temperature and coating thickness on the internal stress values were investigated by Taguchi design. It is found that increasing MoS2 particle concentration and coating thickness led to decrease in the internal stress developed during MoS2-nickel composite coatings. Interaction effects of these parameters were also revealed.