|
The major
problem with Pot Metal (Zinc Die-Casting) is that it corrodes - badly!
Its use is widespread in the automotive and motorcycle industry, mainly
because it is easy to cast into intricate parts. Unfortunately, the metal is
easily subjected to corrosion, particularly by mild acid attack.
The zinc readily degenerates in the presence of even a mild acid such
as tomato ketchup.
Pot
Metal will polish up and look very good, for about 2-3 days, then it rapidly
dulls down to a leaden look. This can be most unattractive on vehicles with
lots of shiny aluminium or chrome. By polishing the part, then immediately
plating it with Pot Metal Electroless Nickel, the metal can be given a long
term, bright, shiny surface, closely matching the other components on the
vehicle. |
 |
|
Parts
made of Pot Metal and treated with Pot Metal TREATMENT may be plated with any
of the following CASWELL Plating Systems:- Electroless Nickel, Electroless
Krome, Regular Nickel (using power and anodes), Copy Chrome, Copper.
The
Pot Metal TREATMENT system also provides a thin layer of nickel all over the
surface, to prevent the acidic action of nickel, copper & Electroless
Nickel & Krome baths, from attacking the pot metal.
Repairs can be carried out before this process, if soldering, or
afterwards if copper plating.
It
is important that you ensure all areas of the part are extremely clean,
especially any pitted areas. These should be closely examined for any black
deposits, and they should be removed by drilling, bead blasting etc. In the
event that the part will require some repair, this may be carried out with
lead free "Solder pastes", or by heavily copper plating and then sanding smooth. |