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XTP-800 in Metal Electroplating Baths

Electroplating is a process for adding a metal coating on a solid metal or conductive surface.  The process works by applying a direct current through the solution.  The solution is comprised of a mixture of salts and the metal that is to be plated.  The metal in the solution acts as the cathode that will receive the metal ions when the solution becomes charged, forcing the negative ions to be attracted to the cathode (metal to be plated). 

 

Electroplating has many uses, including decorative purposes, or prevent corrosion.  It also allows manufacturers to save cost as the structure of the component can be made from inexpensive steel or zinc and plated in more expensive copper, silver, or chromium to provide a nicer finish. 

 

The metal salt solution is crucial to the electroplating process, so it needs to be stored and measured accurately.  Due to the high corrosiveness of the metal salt solution typical alloy level sensors are not chemically compatible. 

 

Challenge:  Sourcing a high-quality level sensor that is chemically compatible with electroplating metal salt solution.

 

Solution:  Gems XTP-800 Level Transmitter   

 

 

Gems XTP-800 level transmitter is constructed of all premium plastic components to ensure high chemical compatibility with the metal salt fluid.  Specifically, the XTP-800 level sensor can be configured with either PVC, Polypropylene or PVDF, which each are very chemically inert materials.  This ensure they can withstand the high salt concentration and not corrode or warp.  With three different mounting styles, 1” NPT, 3” NPT and 3” 150# flange, it can be compatible with multiple different tank openings. 

 

In addition, the XTP-800 can be configured with multiple output signals, including proportional voltage, 0-5 VDC, 0-12 VDC, and 4-20mA output.  This allows the level sensor to be compatible with any type of controller or display.  This float-based level sensor provides accurate level measurement with a ¼” resolution.  Since this is a direct reading and not inferred (through the air technology) it is not affected by changes in temperature, pressure, or moisture in the air.  This ensures a reliable level output which ensure high uptime of the electroplating process. 

 

With a max temperature range of 210 degrees Fahrenheit (PVDF material) it can withstand being located in a heated tank and still provide an accurate level measurement.  Gems XTP-800 level sensor is an excellent solution for measuring the metal salt solution in electroplating equipment!

 

Additional Sensors used in Metal Plating Baths: